Odafe Oweh Signs Major Contract
“Oweh was expected to generate a lot of interest in free agency,” a source close to the situation revealed, highlighting the buzz surrounding the young edge rusher’s future. On March 9, 2026, Odafe Oweh officially signed a four-year contract with the Washington Commanders, valued at $100 million, with $68 million guaranteed. This deal marks a significant step in Oweh’s career as he transitions to a new team after a tumultuous period with the Baltimore Ravens and a brief stint with the Los Angeles Chargers.
Oweh’s journey in the NFL began when he was selected as a first-round pick by the Baltimore Ravens in the 2021 NFL Draft. Over five seasons, he has accumulated 30.5 sacks, showcasing his potential as a formidable edge rusher. However, his performance has been inconsistent; he had a challenging start to the 2025 season, recording zero sacks in his first five games with the Ravens before being traded to the Chargers in exchange for safety Alohi Gilman.
During his time with the Chargers, Oweh found his footing, recording 7.5 sacks in just 12 games. This resurgence in performance was crucial as the Commanders sought to bolster their defense, which ranked 24th in pressure rate last season. The team recognized the need for improvement, especially after giving up the most yards in the NFL last season. Oweh’s addition is expected to address these defensive shortcomings.
Oweh’s contract ranks 12th among NFL edge defenders in average annual value (AAV), according to OverTheCap.com. This ranking reflects the high expectations placed on him as he joins the Commanders. His ability to generate pressures will be vital for a team looking to enhance its defensive capabilities. In 2025, Oweh recorded 52 pressures, tying him for 24th in the NFL, indicating his potential to impact games significantly.
Despite the challenges he faced earlier in his career, including a slow start in 2025, Oweh’s track record includes a standout performance two seasons ago when he had 10 sacks with the Ravens. This history of success, combined with his recent performance, has made him a valuable asset for the Commanders.
As Oweh prepares to join the Commanders, the team and its fans are hopeful that he can replicate his previous successes and become a cornerstone of their defense. His signing is seen as a strategic move to strengthen the team’s defensive line and improve their overall performance in the upcoming season.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the specific expectations the Commanders have for Oweh in the coming season. However, the anticipation surrounding his arrival is palpable, and all eyes will be on him as he aims to make a significant impact in Washington.
