Osa Odighizuwa has quietly become one of the most reliable interior defensive linemen in the NFL. Known for his consistent pressure on quarterbacks and strong motor, Odighizuwa has developed into a key defensive playmaker since entering the league in 2021. From his dominant college career at UCLA Bruins to becoming an impactful NFL starter, his journey highlights steady growth and durability.
Below is a complete look at Odighizuwa’s stats, contract details, PFF grades, highlights, and football background.
Osa Odighizuwa Stats (NFL Career)
Odighizuwa was selected in the 3rd round (75th overall) of the National Football League draft by the Dallas Cowboys in 2021. Since then, he has become a consistent contributor on the defensive line.
Career Stats (through 2025 season)
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Games Played: 84
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Total Tackles: 216
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Solo Tackles: 115
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Assists: 101
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Sacks: 17
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Tackles for Loss: 34
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QB Hits: 80+
In the 2025 NFL season, Odighizuwa recorded:
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44 tackles
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3.5 sacks
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6 tackles for loss
He also generated 52 total pressures, ranking among the top interior defenders in the league that year.
Osa Odighizuwa Contract
In 2025, Odighizuwa signed a four-year, $80 million contract extension with Dallas.
Contract details:
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Total Value: $80 million
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Guaranteed Money: $58 million
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Average Salary: $20 million per year
The deal secured his future as a core piece of the Cowboys’ defensive front after he emerged as one of the top free-agent defensive tackles that offseason.
Osa Odighizuwa PFF Grade
According to Pro Football Focus, Odighizuwa has been an effective interior pass rusher.
2025 PFF grades:
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Overall Grade: 65.9
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Pass Rush Grade: 71.5
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Run Defense Grade: 58.9
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Total Pressures: 52 (top-10 among defensive tackles)
His pass-rush production is often considered his biggest strength, consistently collapsing pockets from the interior defensive line.
Osa Odighizuwa Highlights
Odighizuwa’s game is built on technique, power, and quick hands.
Key strengths
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Interior pass rush ability
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Strong leverage and hand usage
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High snap counts and durability
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Ability to generate QB pressures
One of his best seasons came in 2024, when he posted 4.5 sacks and 23 quarterback hits, showing his ability to disrupt offenses from the defensive tackle position.
College Career at UCLA
Before entering the NFL, Odighizuwa played for the UCLA Bruins from 2016 to 2020.
College achievements
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Multi-year starter on UCLA’s defensive line
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Recorded 120+ tackles and 10+ sacks in college
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Known for elite quickness for an interior lineman
His performance at UCLA helped him rise into the 2021 NFL Draft, where scouts valued his versatility and pass-rush potential.
High School Background
Odighizuwa attended David Douglas High School in Oregon.
High school highlights
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Dominant defensive lineman in football
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Top-ranked heavyweight wrestler in the nation
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Multiple state wrestling championships
His wrestling background helped develop the leverage, balance, and hand-fighting techniques that later became key parts of his pass-rushing skillset.
Quick Bio
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Full Name: Osa Odighizuwa
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Born: August 13, 1998
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Height: 6 ft 2 in
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Weight: 280 lbs
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Position: Defensive Tackle
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College: UCLA
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Draft: 2021, Round 3, Pick 75
Conclusion
Osa Odighizuwa has developed into one of the NFL’s most dependable interior defenders. With strong pressure metrics, steady production, and a lucrative contract, he continues to be a key defensive presence. From dominating on the wrestling mat in high school to becoming a disruptive force in the NFL, Odighizuwa’s rise reflects both athletic skill and relentless effort.
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