The Los Angeles Chargers made a strategic move ahead of the NFL trade deadline by acquiring pass rusher Odafe Oweh from the Baltimore Ravens. In exchange, the Chargers sent defensive back Alohi Gilman to Baltimore along with a 2027 seventh-round pick. Oweh, a former first-round draft pick, had struggled to meet expectations in his previous tenure but has shown promise since joining the Chargers.
Oweh has already made an impressive impact in his new role, recording four sacks in just a few games. His performance has not gone unnoticed, as Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report has listed him as the 40th best projected free agent for 2026. As teams across the league seek to bolster their pass rush capabilities, the Chargers may face competition in retaining Oweh.
Oweh’s Potential and Future Prospects
Oweh’s journey in the NFL has been a mixed bag. While he did not consistently perform at the level expected of a first-round pick during his time with the Ravens, he had a standout season in 2024, finishing with ten sacks. After his recent trade, he has shown flashes of that potential, raising his profile just as he approaches free agency.
As noted by Knox, “Odafe Oweh never quite played up to his draft status during his time with the Baltimore Ravens. He did have a 10-sack season in 2024, though, and has flashed this season since being traded to the Los Angeles Chargers.” Oweh will turn 27 when free agency officially opens, positioning him for lucrative long-term offers.
Last week, Oweh recorded two sacks in a game against the Tennessee Titans and has an opportunity to reach double-digit sacks with eight games remaining in the season. If he achieves this milestone, the Chargers may find themselves in a bidding war for his services come offseason.
Strategic Implications for the Chargers
The Chargers’ decision to trade for a player on an expiring contract indicates their recognition of Oweh’s potential value. Should he continue to perform well, the team will need to be proactive in their approach to securing his future with the franchise.
With Oweh’s recent performances, the Chargers are likely to prioritize discussions about a long-term contract. As the offseason approaches, the dynamics of the NFL landscape will shift, and Oweh’s contributions will play a crucial role in the Chargers’ plans moving forward.
Overall, the trade appears to be a calculated risk for the Chargers. With Oweh’s talent and potential for further development, he could become a cornerstone of their defense in the seasons ahead.
