Dallas Cowboys 2025 Free Agency Tracker: Extensions for Osa Odighizuwa and KaVontae Turpin

As the 2025 NFL offseason continues to unfold, the Dallas Cowboys have been actively reshaping their roster in preparation for the new season. One of the biggest stories to come out of the Cowboys’ camp in recent weeks is the extension of two key players: defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa and wide receiver/return specialist KaVontae Turpin. These moves reflect the team’s commitment to both their defense and special teams units, locking in homegrown talent who have demonstrated their value on the field.

Osa Odighizuwa’s Contract Extension: The Heart of the Defensive Line

Osa Odighizuwa, a third-round draft pick by the Cowboys in 2021, has quickly developed into one of the most important players on the team’s defensive line. Known for his disruptive play and strong pass-rushing abilities, Odighizuwa has been a vital part of the Cowboys’ defense since his arrival. His consistency against both the run and the pass has earned him respect as one of the up-and-coming defensive stars in the league.

On March 11, 2025, it was reported that the Cowboys and Odighizuwa had agreed to a four-year, $80 million contract extension. The deal will keep Odighizuwa in Dallas through the 2029 season and reflects the team’s recognition of his impact on the field. While Odighizuwa is not yet a household name across the NFL, his steady and impressive development has made him a cornerstone of the Cowboys’ defensive line.

The extension comes at a critical time for the Cowboys, as they look to solidify their defensive unit for a potential Super Bowl run. With the departure of some key defensive veterans in recent years, Odighizuwa’s extension gives Dallas the necessary stability and leadership along their defensive front, especially as they continue to refine their pass rush. His ability to get after the quarterback, disrupt offensive schemes, and clog running lanes makes him an invaluable asset to defensive coordinator Dan Quinn’s scheme.

KaVontae Turpin’s New Deal: Keeping Special Teams Explosive

While the Cowboys’ defense has been a focus in free agency, special teams play has been just as critical to their success, especially with the dynamic playmaking of KaVontae Turpin. Turpin, who joined the Cowboys in 2022 as a special teams ace, has quickly earned a reputation as one of the most explosive return specialists in the NFL. His ability to change the course of a game with a well-timed return for a touchdown has made him an invaluable weapon on special teams.

On March 11, 2025, Turpin signed a three-year, $18 million contract with the Cowboys. This deal not only locks in Turpin’s services for the next several years but also secures him as one of the highest-paid return specialists in the league. The extension reflects the Cowboys’ appreciation for Turpin’s contributions to the team and their long-term vision for a successful special teams unit.

Turpin’s return touchdowns have made him a fan favorite in Dallas, and his ability to flip the field has given the Cowboys a significant advantage in both field position and scoring opportunities. His versatility as both a return specialist and a wide receiver has allowed the Cowboys to get creative with his usage, adding another layer of unpredictability to their offensive game plan.

Dallas’ Free Agency Moves: A Well-Balanced Approach

The Odighizuwa and Turpin extensions are just part of a broader strategy the Cowboys have employed in 2025 free agency. While retaining key internal talent has been a priority, Dallas has also made moves to strengthen their roster through outside additions. The team’s approach has been a balance of bolstering their depth on both sides of the ball while also keeping their core players intact.

One such move was the return of defensive end Dante Fowler Jr., who re-signed with the Cowboys in an effort to reinforce their pass-rushing unit. Fowler was a crucial part of the Cowboys’ defensive line in 2024 and is expected to continue providing pressure on opposing quarterbacks in 2025. His re-signing provides a veteran presence on the edge, complementing the young and talented interior defensive line anchored by Odighizuwa.

Another notable addition came in the form of Solomon Thomas and Payton Turner, both of whom were added to the Cowboys’ defensive line. These former first-round picks bring a wealth of untapped potential and depth to the defensive front. Both players have shown flashes of brilliance in their previous stops and will be given an opportunity to develop under the tutelage of Dallas’ coaching staff.

In the secondary, the Cowboys made a trade to acquire cornerback Kaiir Elam from the Buffalo Bills. Elam, a former first-round pick himself, will add competition and depth to the cornerback room, which will be especially important with Trevon Diggs recovering from a knee injury. Elam’s ability to match up with top receivers and his physicality will provide a boost to a Cowboys defense that thrives on creating turnovers.

Additionally, the Cowboys signed linebacker Jack Sanborn to a one-year deal. Sanborn, who spent time with the Chicago Bears, provides versatility and experience across multiple linebacker positions. His addition should help fortify a linebacker corps that could use depth and special teams support.

Finally, the Cowboys acquired linebacker Kenneth Murray Jr. in a trade from the Los Angeles Chargers. Murray brings much-needed leadership and playmaking ability to the linebacker group. His speed and instincts have made him a productive player in the NFL, and the Cowboys are hoping he can elevate their defense as they look to challenge for a Super Bowl in 2025.

 A Balanced Strategy for Success

The 2025 free agency period has been a productive one for the Dallas Cowboys, highlighted by the extensions of Osa Odighizuwa and KaVontae Turpin. These moves show that the Cowboys are committed to keeping their homegrown talent and ensuring continuity on both the defensive line and special teams. By locking in Odighizuwa, Dallas secures a foundational piece of their defense for the future, while Turpin’s extension reinforces the importance of special teams in today’s NFL.

Beyond these extensions, the Cowboys’ free agency strategy has been well-balanced. The addition of players like Fowler, Elam, Sanborn, and Murray signals that Dallas is focused on improving their roster without sacrificing depth. With a mix of stability and fresh talent, the Cowboys appear poised to make a strong push in 2025, with a roster built to compete for the ultimate prize: the Lombardi Trophy.

As the free agency period continues, expect the Cowboys to make additional moves to further strengthen their roster. However, these two key extensions set the tone for an offseason that prioritizes both continuity and improvement. If the Cowboys can continue to build around their core players while enhancing their depth, 2025 could be the year they finally make a deep run in the playoffs.