FRISCO, Texas — As the Dallas Cowboys gear up for the 2025 NFL season, one of their most pressing concerns has been solidifying the defensive tackle position. With the free agency departure of Osa Odighizuwa uncertain until his re-signing and the addition of Solomon Thomas, the Cowboys were still faced with unanswered questions going into the draft.
While the 3-technique position looks secure with Odighizuwa and Thomas anchoring the right side, the left side of the defensive line remained in question, with former first-round pick Mazi Smith slated for a breakout Year 3—but lacking much depth behind him.
In come Jay Toia and Tommy Akingbesote, two massive seventh-round selections who bring more than just size to the table. These rookie interior linemen are eager to prove they have the potential to contribute far beyond their draft status.
“I think I’m going to be a great fit over [in Dallas],” said Toia, who stands at 6-foot-2 and weighs in at 342 pounds. Known for his physicality and play style that focuses on high-volume effort, he’s focused on learning from the experienced veterans in the locker room, particularly Osa. Toia has earned praise for his ability to not only clog up the middle but to disrupt plays, especially in the run game—a pressing need for the Cowboys’ defense.
“Stop the run,” Toia said confidently. “I feel like that’s one of the biggest reasons I was drafted and that’s exactly what I’m going to do is stop the run. That’s my biggest strength.”
Akingbesote, another formidable figure at 6-foot-4 and 306 pounds, brings an intense physicality to the Cowboys’ interior defense. A former basketball player from Maryland, he’s known for his speed and aggression. His primary focus, however, is on run-stopping—though he also has ambitions to refine his pass-rushing skills. “I bring physicality every time, man,” Akingbesote said. “I’m a workhorse. I bring physicality. I’ve got a great IQ, and I’m a winner, at the end of the day. My preparation breeds winning.”
The Cowboys now face the task of developing these rookies under the guidance of Aaron Whitecotton, one of the most respected defensive line coaches in the league. Along with Toia and Akingbesote, other players like Justin Rogers, Earnest Brown IV, and Denzel Daxon are competing for key rotational spots. However, it’s clear that Toia and Akingbesote are ready to make their presence felt—whether that means challenging fellow rookies for playing time or outmatching offensive linemen during training camp.
“I’m here to win,” said Akingbesote. “I want to win a Super Bowl. That’s what is on my mind.” It seems the Cowboys’ defense might just have two new rookies with the drive and skill to significantly impact the team’s run-stopping efforts this season.
