Breaking: Cowboys Explain Smart Move to Avoid Costly Deal for Star Defender with Nine Sacks and Elite Pressure Stats

 

The Dallas Cowboys may have made one of their smartest financial decisions in recent memory by avoiding a high-priced deal with defensive tackle Christian Wilkins during the 2024 free agency period. Known for their frugal approach to big-name signings under owner and de facto general manager Jerry Jones, the Cowboys once again resisted the temptation to chase top-dollar players — and it paid off.

 

Although Jones has often been criticized for being overly conservative in free agency — not making a major splash since the $50 million signing of cornerback Brandon Carr in 2012 — his strategy was vindicated when the Las Vegas Raiders handed Wilkins a massive four-year contract worth $110 million, including $82.75 million guaranteed. The deal came after Wilkins’ standout 2023 season with the Dolphins, in which he recorded nine sacks and ranked highly in pressures and QB hits. Many Cowboys fans were calling for the team to land a top-tier defensive tackle like Wilkins, who seemed like a perfect match alongside rising star Osa Odighizuwa.

But the gamble didn’t work out for Las Vegas. Wilkins managed to play only five games in the 2025 season due to a foot injury, raising questions about the long-term value of his deal. As Lou Scataglia of NFL Spin Zone noted, the Raiders’ approach under former GM Tom Telesco — signing marquee names while neglecting roster depth — is proving costly. Wilkins, now nearing 30, is already being labeled as part of one of the league’s worst contracts.

 

Meanwhile, the Cowboys stayed disciplined and focused on building from within. Instead of overspending on Wilkins, they chose to extend Odighizuwa, who had a breakout season and emerged as one of the NFL’s best interior pass-rushers. In March, Dallas signed him to a contract averaging $20 million per year, with $39 million guaranteed — a much better value compared to Wilkins’ deal. Despite being ranked 15th in average salary among defensive tackles, Odighizuwa was top-seven in key pass-rushing metrics, including pressures and sacks.

 

While other free agent DTs like Grover Stewart, D.J. Reader, and Sheldon Rankins also tempted fans, the Cowboys’ front office made the calculated and strategic choice. By investing in their homegrown talent and avoiding an injury-prone Wilkins, Dallas not only saved $110 million but also solidified a key position with a player who continues to trend upward.