Why Donovan Ezeiruaku Embraces His Role as the Cowboys’ Second-Round Pick and Rejects Eagles Fandom

Brian Schottenheimer and Klayton Adams got their wish when the Dallas Cowboys selected Tyler Booker, a former Alabama guard, with the 12th pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus was also happy when the Cowboys picked Donovan Ezeiruaku, a standout defensive end from Boston College, with the 44th pick.

Ezeiruaku was surprised by the call from Dallas. He hadn’t met them formally before the draft, only briefly at the NFL Combine. He thought the Cowboys were not interested in him.

When his phone rang, showing "Blue Star," he was taken aback. "I was just with my family, not expecting anything," he recalled. "It felt surreal."

Interestingly, Ezeiruaku grew up in New Jersey as an Eagles fan, despite being raised in Philadelphia. For years, he rooted against the Cowboys. But everything changed on April 25.

At his draft party, surrounded by Eagles fans, he humorously told them to ditch their gear. "I said, ‘Go ahead and take that off right now,’" he laughed.

Even though he enjoyed the Eagles’ Super Bowl win in 2024, hearing from Jerry Jones ended his fandom. "That was cool, in my last year as an Eagles fan," Ezeiruaku stated.

He joins the Cowboys at a crucial time. With DeMarcus Lawrence leaving in free agency, the team needs help on the defensive line alongside star Micah Parsons. Ezeiruaku expressed eagerness to learn from Parsons, noting they share Pennsylvania roots.

Ezeiruaku brings more than just passion. He recorded 16.5 sacks and forced eight fumbles in 2024. His ability to take the ball away fits perfectly into the Cowboys’ defensive strategy, which emphasizes creating turnovers.

"The most important thing is the football," he said. "When I go for a sack or tackle, I always aim for the ball, just like my coaches taught me in college."

His skills don’t end there. Ezeiruaku is also strong against the run, making him one of this year’s draft’s top defenders. He prides himself on stopping opponents early in plays. "We need to stop the run to set up for the pass rush," he explained.

Having a player with Ezeiruaku’s skills is exciting for the Cowboys’ coaching staff. His work ethic and determination align perfectly with the team’s defensive needs.

As the Cowboys transition to this new chapter, Ezeiruaku’s story adds another layer to the team’s narrative — a tale of unexpected opportunities and fierce commitment. It’s not just about playing football; it’s about embracing the journey and making an impact.

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