TRENDING: Cowboys Star Rookie Threatens To Walk Away From Football

June 24, 2025, 1:54 PM +07, Frisco, TX – The Dallas Cowboys are facing a brewing crisis as their 2025 NFL Draft second-round pick, defensive end Donovan Ezeiruaku, threatens to walk away from football over a contract dispute. His demand for a fully guaranteed deal has sent shockwaves through the team following an active offseason, according to reports.

Ezeiruaku, selected 44th overall from Boston College, is seeking a fully guaranteed contract worth approximately $10.2 million, per estimated rookie salary projections. “I won’t play without fair protection,” he told NFL.com, escalating tensions just weeks before training camp begins in late July. His stance has put pressure on the Cowboys’ front office as they prepare for the 2025 season.

The 21-year-old pass rusher impressed during minicamp with his explosive edge rush, recording a 90.7 PFF pass-rushing grade in college. He’s poised to compete for a starting role alongside Micah Parsons, especially with Dante Fowler Jr. and Sam Williams in contract years. However, his holdout risks disrupting a defensive line already thin after injuries to Trevon Diggs and Shavon Revel Jr. in 2024.

Head coach Brian Schottenheimer remains composed, stating, “We’re in discussions,” during a press conference. Yet, GM Jerry Jones, with limited cap space after recent moves like signing George Pickens and Osa Odighizuwa, has resisted fully guaranteed rookie deals, a trend noted by Bleacher Report for the 2025 draft class.

Ezeiruaku’s versatility—effective in both pass rush and run defense—aligns with Schottenheimer’s vision, but his absence could weaken a unit that allowed 148 rushing yards per game last season. If unresolved, he might sit out 2025 and re-enter the 2026 draft, a risky move that could derail the Cowboys’ Super Bowl hopes.

As the team gears up for their opener against the Eagles, the standoff with Ezeiruaku tests Jones’ negotiation skills. Will he cave, or lose a potential star? Stay tuned to ESPN for the latest updates.