Dallas Cowboys Bolster Defense, Draft Boston College Star Donovan Ezeiruaku in Second Round
With the 44th overall pick in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft, the Dallas Cowboys made a major addition to their defense by selecting Boston College defensive end Donovan Ezeiruaku. The dynamic edge rusher arrives in Dallas after an outstanding collegiate career and a particularly dominant final season that established him as one of the top pass-rushing prospects in this year’s draft.
Ezeiruaku had a breakout year in 2024, earning AP First-Team All-American honors after posting an impressive stat line of 16.5 sacks and 20.5 tackles for loss. His ability to disrupt backfields consistently helped anchor Boston College’s defensive unit and caught the attention of NFL scouts across the league. Known for his explosive first step, high motor, and ability to win with both speed and power, Ezeiruaku brings an instant-impact presence to the Cowboys’ defensive front.
The Cowboys’ coaching staff had a unique advantage in evaluating Ezeiruaku’s talent. Quarterbacks coach Steve Shimko, who joined Dallas in 2024, previously served on the coaching staff at Boston College from 2022 to 2024. His firsthand experience working alongside Ezeiruaku gave the Cowboys an insider’s perspective into the player’s work ethic, character, and on-field performance, which likely played a significant role in the team’s decision to make him their second-round selection.
For a Dallas team looking to strengthen its pass rush and add depth to the defensive line, Ezeiruaku is a perfect fit. With DeMarcus Lawrence nearing the twilight of his career and Micah Parsons being used in multiple roles across the defense, the Cowboys needed another edge rusher who could apply pressure off the edge. Ezeiruaku’s blend of athleticism and production makes him an ideal complement to the team’s existing defensive stars.
Throughout the draft process, Ezeiruaku stood out in interviews and at the NFL Combine, where his athletic testing confirmed the explosiveness that showed up on tape. Scouts praised his bend around the edge, his relentless pursuit of the quarterback, and his ability to convert speed to power. There’s still room for growth in his run defense and hand technique, but his ceiling as a pass rusher is extremely high.
In joining the Cowboys, Ezeiruaku enters an organization with a proud defensive tradition and a coaching staff well equipped to help him develop further. Defensive coordinator Dan Quinn has a proven track record of maximizing the talent of young pass rushers, and Ezeiruaku will now have the chance to learn alongside some of the league’s best.
Fans in Dallas have reason to be excited, as the team continues to build a fast, aggressive defense designed to take over games. If Ezeiruaku’s college production is any indication, the Cowboys may have found a future star to anchor their defensive line for years to come.
With his college coach now on the Cowboys’ staff and his path to playing time already clear, Donovan Ezeiruaku could be one of the steals of the 2025 NFL Draft.
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