Cowboys Rookie Donovan Ezeiruaku Threatens to Walk Away from Football

Dallas, TX – July 1, 2025

The Dallas Cowboys are facing a potential crisis as their 2025 second-round pick, edge rusher Donovan Ezeiruaku, threatens to abandon football over a contentious contract dispute, leaving Cowboys Nation stunned during mandatory minicamp, sources told ESPN. The standoff has cast a shadow over the team’s preparations for the upcoming season.

Ezeiruaku, selected 44th overall from Boston College, skipped minicamp drills from June 10-12, refusing to sign his rookie deal. The 21-year-old, who notched 16.5 sacks and 21 tackles for loss in 2024, is demanding a fully guaranteed $10.1 million contract, per recent reports. “I want fairness, not negotiations that feel like a game,” he told reporters, criticizing the Cowboys’ approach and hinting at a possible exit from the sport.

Coach Brian Schottenheimer remains hopeful, stating, “We’re making progress in talks; Donovan’s got the talent we need,” during a press conference. However, Ezeiruaku’s holdout jeopardizes Dallas’ Super Bowl LX ambitions following a 7-10 season in 2024. By avoiding minicamp, he sidestepped $105,000 in fines, sparing teammates like Dak Prescott from added distractions.

The dispute echoes rare holdouts like Bo Jackson, with Ezeiruaku’s stance risking his 2025 season. If unsigned by November 11, he could sit out and re-enter the 2026 NFL Draft, excluding the Cowboys, a move that could cost the team dearly. His absence during minicamp allowed veterans like Micah Parsons to lead drills, but the defensive line, ranked 28th in yards allowed last year, sorely needs his pass-rush potential.

GM Jerry Jones faces mounting pressure to resolve the issue, with the Cowboys’ $32 million cap space offering room to maneuver. Ezeiruaku’s college accolades—2024 First-Team All-American—make him a prized asset, yet his back injury history from the Combine adds complexity. “We want him, but this can’t drag on,” Jones said.

As training camp nears on July 25, Ezeiruaku’s threat to walk away looms large. Can the Cowboys retain their rookie star, or will this drama force a rethink? Stay tuned to ESPN for the latest