Donovan Ezeiruaku appeared in every game during his rookie campaign, but he underwent hip labrum surgery last month. His recovery process in ongoing, and no setbacks have been encountered.
Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer recently said (via ESPN’s Todd Archer) Ezeiruaku remains on schedule with respect to his rehab following surgery. The 2025 second-rounder is on track to receive full medical clearance in time for training camp as a result. Ezeiruaku will be present for Dallas’ upcoming offseason program, although he will not participate in any team drills.
Logging nine starts in 2025, Ezeiruaku handled a defensive snap share of 55%. The Boston College product managed 40 total stops, nine tackles for loss and a pair of sacks. Ezeiruaku added 26 pressures and one forced fumble while playing in then-defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus‘ 4-3 scheme. The arrival of Christian Parker has resulted in a shift to a 3-4 setup on defense, something which could benefit Ezeiruaku moving forward.
A strong second season from the 22-year-old would help a Cowboys team in need of improvements along the edge. Dallas traded for Rashan Gary and re-signed Sam Williams, but Jadeveon Clowney – who led the team with 8.5 sacks in 2025 – remains on the open market at this time. Archer confirms the Cowboys are expected to focus heavily on defense during the draft, and it would come as no surprise if that were to include an early EDGE investment.
In any event, Ezeiruaku will be counted on to remain a key part of Dallas’ pass rush group for 2026 and beyond. A clean bill of health will certainly be welcomed when padded practices begin during training camp. Acclimating to Parker’s scheme and preparing for Year 2 will be key goals for Ezeiruaku, and he will be able to resume on-field work at the most important part of the offseason provided his recovery remains on track.