Brian Schottenheimer’s hand is already starting to be felt on the Dallas Cowboys. Following the fiasco of the “all in” approach that Jerry Jones announced last year, the team announced a “selectively aggressive” approach this offseason, which includes an interview with a controversial college prospect.
Schottenheimer’s arrival to the Cowboys a few weeks ago to replace head coach Mike McCarthy is already having an effect. The team has had a very active week at the NFL Scouting Combine and is also beginning to review the contracts of some of its free agents.
Press reports indicate that Dallas is working on a new contract for Osa Odighizuwa. Although the details are unknown, rumors claim the defensive tackle would receive $21 million per season. Moreover, knowing Odighizuwa will need some help, the team is looking to land a controversial college football star.
Just saw somebody call Osa Odighizuwa mid. Grow up pic.twitter.com/6b39gWvxxY
— Dallas Cowboys Pain (@cowboys_pain) February 27, 2025
Schottenheimer wants to bolster the defense
The Cowboys’ defensive line left more questions than answers last season. What’s more, so far, second-year tackle Mazi Smith is the only one with a contract locked in for next season. With such a thin roster at the position and Smith’s shaky performance, Schottenheimer doesn’t want to take any chances.
To add depth to the position, the Cowboys are beginning to interview candidates, including Walter Nolen III. The star defensive tackle from Ole Miss made a strong impression in his time with the Rebels, earning First Team All-America and First Team All-SEC honors.
However, since he was in high school, the young tackle has had a tag that says “behavioral concerns.” Reports indicate that some teams have erased him from their interview boards, raising questions among analysts and fans.
Good luck double teaming Walter Nolen… https://t.co/teTvsUGJsj pic.twitter.com/FMpgZAMMJq
— SCOUTD (@scoutdnfl) February 15, 2025
Nolen is a top prospect
At 6-4 and 300 pounds, it’s hard to pass up a prospect like Nolen. Most analysts have him as a surefire first-rounder, and some even say the Tennessee Titans could take him with the No. 1 overall pick.
Along with the Titans, analysts point to the San Francisco 49ers, Pittsburgh Steelers, and even the champion Philadelphia Eagles as possible destinations for Nolen. If the Cowboys are willing to ignore the controversies, they have their work cut out for them to secure the young player’s services.
