By Blessing 
Free agency doesn’t officially kick off until March 12th, but that doesn’t mean the Dallas Cowboys aren’t already planning their moves. With several players set to hit the market at the end of the 2024 league year, it seems inevitable that the team will use the franchise tag to hold onto one key contributor. The challenge will be deciding who gets it.
The position a player plays plays a big role in the cost of a franchise tag. Though official numbers haven’t been set, tagging a defensive lineman would likely cost around $23 million, while running backs would come in closer to $13 million. Kickers and punters sit at the low end, around six to seven million—though nobody seems to appreciate those guys until it’s crunch time with three seconds left on the clock.
Given the price tag and team needs, two players stand out as prime candidates for the Cowboys’ franchise tag.
Osa Odighizuwa: A Defensive Standout
Defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa has become a cornerstone of the Cowboys’ defense. The 26-year-old UCLA alum has proven his value since being drafted, earning just under $7 million over his four-year career. Now, it’s time for a payday—and teams around the league are taking notice.
One of the teams reportedly interested is Washington, where former Cowboys defensive coordinator Dan Quinn is now coaching. In an amusing twist, Cowboys fans may find themselves shouting, “Hey Dan, get your paws off our defensive tackle, you damn, dirty ape!” as a nod to a famous movie reference.
Odighizuwa has earned that kind of attention. Over his 67-game career (with 63 starts), he has 13.5 sacks, 172 tackles (28 for a loss), 58 quarterback hits, two forced fumbles, and even defended a pass last season. His 2024 campaign saw career-high numbers across the board, cementing his reputation as a reliable and disruptive force on the line.
Projections suggest Odighizuwa could command a contract in the $25 million per year range—a hefty price for a team with multiple holes to fill. But tagging him would save the Cowboys about $2 million compared to a long-term deal, buying them time to figure out their next move.
Rico Dowdle: An Underdog’s Rise
On the offensive side, running back Rico Dowdle could be another contender for the franchise tag. The former undrafted free agent from South Carolina has earned just $4.28 million over five seasons. Despite playing behind Ezekiel Elliott and Tony Pollard for much of his career, Dowdle finally had a breakout season in 2024, rushing for 1,079 yards and two touchdowns—more than doubling his previous career totals.
Dowdle’s emergence has made him a valuable asset, but the Cowboys face a dilemma. The free-agent market is packed with running backs, and this year’s draft class is deep at the position. The likelihood of Dallas offering Dowdle a big contract seems slim unless they strike out in free agency and the draft. Early rumors suggest the Denver Broncos may be a strong suitor for Dowdle’s services.
If the Cowboys believe Dowdle can build on his 2024 success, they might gamble on tagging him. But given the lower cost of running backs under the tag compared to other positions, it’s a decision they could more easily justify.
Dark Horse Candidates or No Tag at All?
Of course, if the Cowboys manage to re-sign both Odighizuwa and Dowdle—or if they choose to let them walk—the franchise tag could end up going to someone unexpected or not be used at all. Predicting the Cowboys’ front office decisions can be a maddening exercise.
Jerry and Stephen Jones have publicly emphasized the need to reevaluate their approach to free agency. Yet, fans will remember that last year’s “all-in” strategy didn’t quite pan out as hoped.
What Should Dallas Do?
Ultimately, the Cowboys can’t afford to let Odighizuwa slip away. Defensive tackle is a crucial position, and losing him would create a significant void on the line—especially if he ends up in Washington under Quinn’s guidance. If a long-term deal isn’t in the cards, the franchise tag seems like the logical move.
As for Dowdle, the situation is less clear-cut. The Cowboys have options at running back, both in the draft and free agency, which may lessen their urgency to keep him.
One thing is certain: the Cowboys’ free agency decisions will be crucial in shaping their future success. Here’s hoping they make the right calls.