Cowboys, 49ers Vie for Potential $36.7M Pass Rusher

Dallas and San Francisco could battle to sign free agent Joseph Ossai this offseason.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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The Dallas Cowboys and San Francisco 49ers are expected to compete for the services of veteran pass rusher Joseph Ossai in NFL free agency. Ossai, who played the last four seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals, is projected to command a 4-year, $36.7 million contract according to Spotrac. Both teams have a need to improve their pass rush and could view Ossai as a valuable addition.

Why it matters

The Cowboys and 49ers are two of the NFL's most prominent franchises, so a bidding war over Ossai would be noteworthy. Improving the pass rush is a priority for both teams as they look to bounce back from disappointing 2025 seasons and return to the playoffs.

The details

Ossai, 25, had 43 tackles, 5 sacks and 2 forced fumbles in 14 games for the Bengals last season. Over his 4-year career, he's totaled 116 tackles, 14.5 sacks, 4 forced fumbles and 3 pass deflections. While not a superstar, he's considered a quality pass rusher who could provide a boost to either the Cowboys or 49ers defense.

  • Ossai will be an unrestricted free agent when the 2026 NFL league year begins.

The players

Joseph Ossai

A 25-year-old defensive end who has spent the first 4 seasons of his NFL career with the Cincinnati Bengals.

Dallas Cowboys

An NFL franchise based in Dallas, Texas that is looking to improve its pass rush this offseason.

San Francisco 49ers

An NFL franchise based in San Francisco, California that is also in need of pass rushing help.

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What they’re saying

“Ossai is entering the prime of his career, and among edge-rushers who aren't going to command a big contract in 2026, he is the best bet to have a coming-out party in a new home.”

— Gary Davenport, Bleacher Report Writer (Bleacher Report)

What’s next

The Cowboys and 49ers will likely make their pitches to Ossai when the free agency period opens in the coming months, with the goal of adding him to their respective defenses.

The takeaway

This potential free agency battle between two of the NFL's most prominent franchises highlights the value of quality pass rushers in today's league. Ossai may not be a superstar, but he could provide a significant boost to whichever team is able to sign him this offseason.