Odafe Oweh Signs Major Contract
“Oweh was expected to generate a lot of interest in free agency,” said a source familiar with the negotiations. This prediction has come to fruition as Odafe Oweh has officially signed a four-year contract with the Washington Commanders, valued at $100 million, with $68 million guaranteed.
Oweh’s journey to this significant contract has been marked by ups and downs. Originally drafted as a first-round pick by the Baltimore Ravens in the 2021 NFL Draft, he has had a mixed performance in the league. After recording 30.5 sacks over five seasons, Oweh faced challenges during the 2025 NFL season, where he had zero sacks in his first five games with the Ravens. This led to a trade to the Los Angeles Chargers, where he managed to record 7.5 sacks in just 12 games.
The Commanders, who ranked 24th in pressure rate last season, are looking to bolster their defense with Oweh’s addition. “The Commanders needed help for a defense that gave up the most yards in the NFL last season,” noted an analyst. Oweh’s contract ranks 12th among NFL edge defenders in average annual value (AAV), a testament to the faith the Commanders have in his potential to improve their defensive line.
Despite his struggles, Oweh had a standout season two years ago with the Ravens, where he recorded 10 sacks. His performance since 2024, which includes 17.5 sacks, ranks him 19th in the NFL, showcasing his ability to be a game-changer when on form. Additionally, he recorded 52 pressures in 2025, tying for 24th in the league, indicating his potential to disrupt opposing offenses.
Oweh has made only 27 starts in his NFL career to date, which raises questions about his consistency and ability to stay healthy. However, the Commanders are betting on his talent and the hope that he can replicate his previous successes in a new environment.
The trade from the Ravens to the Chargers, which involved safety Alohi Gilman, was a pivotal moment for Oweh, allowing him to reset his career trajectory. Now, with a fresh start in Washington, he aims to solidify his position as a leading edge rusher in the league.
As the NFL offseason progresses, all eyes will be on Oweh to see how he adapts to his new team and whether he can live up to the expectations that come with his substantial contract. Details remain unconfirmed regarding his immediate impact on the Commanders’ defensive strategy, but the organization is optimistic about the potential he brings to the field.
