The Dallas Cowboys signed veteran tackle Hakeem Adeniji as a calculated attempt to strengthen their offensive line as the 2025 NFL Draft draws near.

The 27-year-old, who is from Garland, Texas, adds experience and variety to a unit that is looking for depth and dependability.

A Versatile Addition

When Adeniji was chosen by the Cincinnati Bengals in the sixth round of the 2020 draft, his NFL career officially began. He appeared in 46 games during his three seasons with the Bengals, starting 22 of them, including crucial postseason games during their march to the Super Bowl LVI. He is a great addition to the Cowboys’ offensive line because he can play both guard and tackle.

Adeniji had short spells with the Cleveland Browns and Minnesota Vikings following his time with the Bengals. His past performances show that he can contribute well when healthy, despite spending the 2024 season on injured reserve because of a knee ailment.

Implications for the Cowboys

After acquiring Robert Jones and Saahdiq Charles this offseason, the Cowboys have now added three players to their offensive line with the signing of Adeniji.

Given the retirement of veteran Zack Martin, this move implies a calculated strategy to increase depth and encourage competitiveness inside the line.

The Cowboys may experiment with different offensive line configurations thanks to Adeniji’s versatility, which could have an impact on their selection strategy. With their first-round pick, the team may now turn their attention to other positions, like wide receiver.

Looking Ahead

Adeniji will compete for a roster position as training camp draws near, hoping to use his versatility and experience to land a position.

His arrival gives the Cowboys choices as they navigate the upcoming draft and get ready for the season, in addition to strengthening the offensive line.

For a deeper analysis of how Adeniji’s signing impacts the Cowboys’ roster and draft plans, you can watch the following video: