The Dallas Cowboys defense is entering a new chapter with Matt Eberflus taking over as defensive coordinator. Defensive lineman Osa Odighizuwa has expressed optimism about working under his new coach.
Matt Eberflus took over as the Cowboys’ defensive coordinator in January following an unremarkable tenure as head coach of the Chicago Bears. Over three seasons from 2022 to 2024, he compiled a 14-32 record before being let go partway through the 2024 campaign. His most competitive season came in 2023, when Chicago finished with a 7-10 mark.
During the team’s OTAs this summer, Eberflus has been settling into his role with the Cowboys. As Dallas moves through the offseason gearing up for the new season, Odighizuwa expressed strong confidence in Eberflus, according to team reporter Jon Machota.
Eberflus referred to Odighizuwa’s role as the three-technique defensive tackle as the core of his defensive scheme. From their time together so far, Odighizuwa has seen firsthand why that label fits and feels the new system will provide him with increased opportunities to shine.
Matt Eberflus and Osa Odighizuwa with the Cowboys
“Just based on some of the things we’re being asked to do right now, I was going back and watching some of the tape from last year and I’m like, ‘If I was doing the stuff we’re being coached to do now, I’m making this play, I’m making that play.’ Just seeing there are going to be a lot more opportunities based on the stuff he’s having us do,” Odighizuwa remarked in his interview.
Cowboys DT Osa Odighizuwa on the emphasis new DC Matt Eberflus puts on his position and how his opportunities could be different this year: “Just based on some of the things we’re being asked to do right now, I was going back and watching some of the tape from last year and I’m… pic.twitter.com/UTYMcsN34o
— Jon Machota (@jonmachota) May 30, 2025
Eberflus is clearly aiming for a fresh start after struggling with the Bears. Now with the Cowboys, he expects to find that success, and Osa Odighizuwa is confident he will thrive within the organization.
Odighizuwa has been part of the Cowboys since the team picked him in the third round of the 2021 NFL Draft. He has been a consistent contributor on defense, accumulating 172 tackles, 28 tackles behind the line of scrimmage, 13.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles over 67 games. In the 2024 season, he notched 47 tackles, five tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, and one forced fumble in 17 contests.
After a 7-10 season plagued by injuries and inconsistency, the Cowboys aim to return to the playoffs under new head coach Brian Schottenheimer, offensive coordinator Klayton Adams, and defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus.
