With a new defensive scheme taking shape in Dallas, the Cowboys are adding another nose tackle to their roster.
On Tuesday, the Cowboys and Otito Ogbonnia agreed to terms on a one-year deal. Ogbonnia last played for the Los Angeles Chargers. He’ll join a defensive line that includes names like Kenny Clark, Quinnen Williams and Osa Odighizuwa.
Here are five things to know about Ogbonnia:
1. The basics
Cowboys
Position: Nose tackle
Birthday: Aug. 25, 2000 (25 years old)
Hometown: Houston
Height: 6-4 Weight: 320
College: UCLA
2. He previously excelled at a sport that wasn’t football
Like many professional athletes, Ogbonnia played several sports in high school. In his time at Taylor High School in Katy, he excelled in football and track and field. He competed in the shot put and discus throw.
He continued to balance his football and shot put duties at UCLA. He was successful in both sports, winning a gold medal in the shot put at the 2019 Pan American U20 Championships in Costa Rica.
3. The UCLA-to-Dallas pipeline grows
Ogbonnia won’t be the only defensive lineman with UCLA ties in Dallas. He’ll soon be teaming up with former Bruins in Clark, Odighizuwa and Jay Toia.
Ogbonnia and Odighizuwa played together at UCLA from 2018-20.
4. Life as a high school recruit
Ogbonnia generated plenty of interest from Power Five programs as a high schooler. He was a three-star recruit in the class of 2018. He held offers from programs like Texas Tech, Ole Miss, Tennessee, Nebraska and Oklahoma State.
He ultimately committed and signed with UCLA in February of 2018. He enrolled at the school in June.
5. NFL stats
Ogbonnia appeared in 41 games for the Chargers from 2022-25. He recorded 82 total tackles, six quarterback hits, four tackles for loss and 0.5 sacks with the franchise.
The Chargers originally selected the nose tackle with the 160th overall pick in the 2022 NFL draft. Dallas notably selected cornerback DaRon Bland seven picks after Ogbonnia went off the board.
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