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By Jason Fray
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The Dallas Cowboys front office hasn't exactly lit the world on fire thus far in the offseason
Several noteworthy targets, particularly along the defensive line, have come off the board. It's no secret Dallas would like to improve its front seven from a depth and talent standpoint.
While the move might not draw a ton of attention, the Cowboys did make an acquisition to try and address some concerns up front on Tuesday by inking veteran defensive tackle Otito Ogbonnia to a one-year deal reportedly worth $3 million.
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Ogbonnia starred at UCLA before being taken in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft by the Los Angeles Chargers. A myriad of injuries have limited Ogbonnia's effectiveness up to this point. He's played in only 41 games (starting 20) over the last four seasons.
Having said that, there could be some upside that Dallas may be able to tap into. The Texas native is only 25 years of age. He was a shot-put savant out of high school, and continued that prowess in college, both throwing shot put and discus. Ogbonnia was also a fantastic student, and that semblance of mental acuity on the football field certainly has surfaced, albeit at a sporadic level, given his injury history. It may seem far-fetched to believe there's still another level for him to get to at this stage in his career, but given some of the tools he possesses, Ogbonnia could surface as somewhat of a diamond in the rough.
Moreover, this could be a situation where a young player simply needs a change of scenery. Returning to his home state may end up being a positive thing for his overall development.
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At the worst, Dallas is making a minimal commitment to a depth piece with plenty of starting experience. However, should the team hit on Ogbonnia, the Cowboys will have a starter-level asset at a very reasonable cost. Ogbonnia won't be much of a pass-rushing threat. However, as a run-stuffing gap plugger, he's more than adequate.
Coincidentally, Ogbonnia will be the fourth former UCLA defensive linemen on the team, joining Kenny Clark, Jay Toia, and Osa Odighizuwa.
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