Dallas’ young defensive core showed leadership and cohesion off the field even as contract talks swirl around Micah Parsons. A birthday-night video featuring Parsons carrying the cake for Odighizuwa and Overshown highlighted a locker room vibe that could translate to a tougher, more connected unit this season. Parsons remains the standout talent, but Odighizuwa and Overshown are emerging as foundational pieces alongside interior disruptors like Mazi Smith.

Odighizuwa’s four-year, $80 million extension with $58 million guaranteed cements him as an engine of the line, per Matt Eberflus. He’s already mentoring the younger tackles and building the chemistry the defense needs under Brian Schottenheimer’s culture-first approach. The trio’s growth, plus the run-stuffing presence of Smith and depth at DT, could unlock more pressure on the quarterback for Parsons and the edge group. Even amid a reported trade stance from Parsons, the Cowboys seem intent on sustaining a disciplined, competitive environment that fantasy managers should watch closely as the defense stabilizes under new leadership.

The dynamic around Parsons aside, the Cowboys’ culture and interior backbone appear set to drive a steady fantasy floor for the DAL defense. Overshown’s mobility and Odighizuwa’s consistency create upside in IDP formats, while Smith’s interior presence should keep Dallas stout against the run. In short, the room is building toward a cohesive, playmaking unit that should remain a relevant, dependable fantasy asset during a season likely defined by growth under Eberflus and Schottenheimer.