According to a report from Ari Meirov, the Detroit Lions have missed out on what one writer recently described as the perfect free agent fit, Osa Odighizuwa. Meirov reported on Tuesday that Odighizuwa has agreed to a four-year, $80 million deal with the Dallas Cowboys, valued at $20 million annually. Odighizuwa, coming off a career-best 2024 season with 4.5 sacks, 47 tackles, and 23 quarterback hits, had solidified his position as one of the top defensive interior linemen.
ESPN’s Aaron Schatz had previously mentioned Odighizuwa as a potential game-changer for the Lions, who have struggled with their defensive line and have dealt with several injuries. With Levi Onwuzurike possibly leaving in free agency, Odighizuwa was considered a perfect solution to fill that gap. His high-motor, inside pass-rushing ability would have paired well with Alim McNeill, providing more depth and pressure to the Lions’ defensive front.
Whether or not signing Osa Odighizuwa was even on the Lions’ radar remains unclear. That said, it will be interesting to see how they approach solidifying their defensive line before the 2025 season begins. Will they bring back Levi Onwuzurike? Will he ask for too much money? If Onwuzurike departs, the Lions will be left with limited depth on the defensive line. Expect Brad Holmes to address this need both in the 2025 NFL Draft and through free agency.