Cowboys’ defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa and the foundation he started to honor his mom and help single mothers are making a difference for families in the community.
Recently, he hosted a baby shower, which included pampering, a meal and gifts, for 20 single moms in the Dallas area — and he plans to host the same kind of event in November in his hometown of Portland, Ore.
For his efforts, Odighizuwa was given the NFLPA Community Award for the second week of the NFL season.
After Cowboys’ practice on Thursday, Odighizuwa talked about the award and giving back to the community.
“It’s honestly dope to get a little recognition for it, but just happy that it makes my foundation more visible, which is ultimately gonna help what we’re doing and the people that we’re trying to help,” Odighizuwa said.
The defensive tackle’s foundation, called Odighizuwa Foundation, was started with his brother, Owamagbe, to honor their mother Abieyuwa, who was a single mother. Odighizuwa said watching his mother’s struggles and strength inspired him to want to help others in the same situation.
“My mom raised me and my three older brothers by herself. So, we know the struggle. I mean, so just being able to reach out and lift people up that are going through the same struggle is super important,” Odighizuwa said.
Odighizuwa and his foundation have benefited more than 150 families, providing them with educational equipment, school supplies, sports equipment, as well as movie nights and other events.
As part of the award, the NFLPA will donate $10,000 to Odighizuwa’s foundation and make him eligible for the Alan Page Community Award, which would give his foundation an additional $100,000.
This story was originally published September 12, 2025 at 4:45 PM.