Despite salary cap concerns, the Baltimore Ravens are open to extend former first-rounder Odafe Oweh, but a trade is still possible. One source says Oweh will be one of the notable players that will enter this upcoming season in his contract year. Originally selected in the 2021 NFL Draft, the former Penn State product showed plenty of flashes through his three seasons with the Ravens until he got a bigger workload this past year. After recording 23 sacks, seven forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries and 138 tackles, he’s one most high-profile pass rushers for the Ravens.
Baltimore didn’t have the same pass-rush last year after losing Jadeveon Clowney and Geno Stone last offseason, so the team is hoping for things to change around. While Oweh could deliver another campaign, it might not be enough for the Ravens to extend him, as the team brought in Tavius Robinson and Mike Green as the future of this unit. However, Kyle Van Noy and David Ojabo will be pending free agents entering the 2025 campaign, so that complicates what the Ravens should prioritize as the future of the linebacker department. Trenton Simpson hasn’t stepped up to prove that he could take over, even as least as a backup, so this is why the Ravens could consider putting all their attention on Oweh and Van Noy, who have been keeping this defensive unit afloat in the trenches.
However, Oweh’s contract could cost, and the Ravens might not have the financial freedom to compensate the next one. Anything can happen if he has a breakout season this year, but Oweh has been circulating in trade rumors this offseason, and these four teams could make an offer.
Report: Ravens Open to Extend Former First Rounder Odafe Oweh, Trade Possible – 4 Suitors Emerge
Possible Destinations
Washington Commanders
The Washington Commanders are in the best position offensively, but could use an upgrade on defense. Frankie Luvu is playing at his peak and Bobby Wagner is returning on a one-year deal. They need a long-term pass-rusher, and Oweh could fill the hole. Dominique Hampton hasn’t proven to be a starter, so it’s safer to trade for someone who has some upside than none.
New Orleans Saints
Despite spending the dollar on safety and a defensive unit, they lacked investment in upgrading the pass-rush. After losing Willie Gay Jr., the Saints need a younger and healthier option other than what they have. Demario Davis is good, but he’s getting up there in age, and Carl Granderson hasn’t done anything spectacular. Oweh could bolster the unit for the Saints that might be struggling on offense this upcoming season.
Dallas Cowboys
Meanwhile, the Dallas Cowboys made a lot of bargain investments for the defensive pass-rush. Jack Sanborn and Dante Fowler Jr. are on one-year deals, but they need a long-term option. As long as they can extend Micah Parsons, they should solidify the defensive department and get Oweh a part of this system.
Los Angeles Chargers
However, just like they need a new dynamic receiver, they also need another linebacker. After releasing Joey Bosa, this depleted defense won’t be the same, even though Jim Harbaugh wants to win football games in the trenches. It just won’t happen if they’ll just depend on Khalil Mack, Da’Shawn Hand and Teair Tart. Oweh could immediately upgrade this defense even though the Ravens won’t ever trade him, but it’s hard to ignore the fit.
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