Dallas Cowboys take $21 million suspicion to the next level with latest intel coming from the NFL Scouting Combine
The Dallas Cowboys are sending a clear message at the NFL Scouting Combine as a $21 million decision looms in the horizon.
The future of the Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle room is a fascinating one, and the intel coming from the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis is only making it more intriguing.
Though the position group is considered the Cowboys’ only strength on defense heading into free agency, it’s a costly one. Out of the seven largest cap hits the Cowboys have on the books for 2026, three are defensive tackles Osa Odighizuwa, Quinnen Williams, and Kenny Clark.
Football wise, it’s a great trio of interior defenders. Financials wise, it’s a hefty investment on just one position group. And the front office appears to be exploring alternatives.
Cowboys looking for a replacement?
NFL teams are allowed a total of 45 formal meetings during the combine. Usually, the Cowboys focus on a handful of position groups they consider needs. As of Wednesday night, there was a clear emphasis on defensive tackles.
According to Clarence Hill Jr. from DLLS Sports, the Cowboys have had six formal meetings with defensive tackles. The list includes first-round prospects Caleb Banks (Florida) and Peter Woods (Clemson).
Additionally, the Cowboys are meeting with Zxavian Harris (Ole Miss), Darrell Jackson Jr. (Florida State), Gary Smith III (UCLA), and Nick Barrett (South Carolina).
Though the Cowboys are meeting with more linebackers and defensive ends, using six formal interviews on defensive tackles while being loaded at the position suggests Dallas is weighing all options. That includes going “cheaper” at the position, which shoves Kenny Clark into center stage.
The $21 million suspicion grows
It’s no secret the Cowboys value Clark as a player and as a locker room leader. But a $21.5 million cap hit will be difficult to navigate. On March 13, Clark is owed an $11 million roster bonus, which means Dallas is in a rush to figure things out.
Realistically, a release is an option—especially considering a trade wouldn’t get the Cowboys much.
But I wouldn’t be surprised if the Cowboys seek for at least a pay cut instead. Perhaps a reworked deal that lowers Clark’s earnings in exchange of guaranteed money in 2026 and 2027 is an enticing middle ground for both parties. The Cowboys did something similar with DeMarcus Lawrence years ago.
For now, the Cowboys’ message is clear. Even with three standout defensive tackles, they want to be ready for anything.
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