Odafe Oweh Signs Major Contract with Washington Commanders
“Oweh was expected to generate a lot of interest in free agency,” a source noted, highlighting the anticipation 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 significant deal marks a pivotal moment in Oweh’s career, especially following a tumultuous season with the Baltimore Ravens and the Los Angeles Chargers.
Oweh, who was a first-round pick by the Baltimore Ravens in the 2021 NFL Draft, has had a mixed performance in his NFL career. Over five seasons, he has accumulated 30.5 sacks, but his recent struggles were evident as he recorded zero sacks in his first five games of the 2025 NFL season with the Ravens. His fortunes changed when he was traded to the Chargers, where he managed to secure 7.5 sacks in just 12 games.
The Commanders, who ranked 24th in pressure rate last season, were in dire need of defensive reinforcements. “The Commanders needed help for a defense that gave up the most yards in the NFL last season,” another source commented, underscoring the urgency behind their pursuit of Oweh. His addition is expected to bolster their defensive line significantly.
Oweh’s contract ranks 12th among NFL edge defenders in average annual value (AAV), according to OverTheCap.com. This places him among the top earners in his position, reflecting the Commanders’ confidence in his potential to turn around his performance. Despite having only made 27 starts in his NFL career to date, his 17.5 sacks since 2024 rank 19th in the league, indicating his capability to impact games positively.
Prior to his trade, Oweh’s performance had raised concerns, particularly his inability to make an impact early in the 2025 season. However, his previous success, including a standout season two years ago where he recorded 10 sacks with the Ravens, suggests that he has the talent to excel when in the right environment.
The Washington Commanders are banking on Oweh’s potential to revitalize their defense. With 52 pressures recorded in 2025, he tied for 24th in the NFL, showcasing his ability to disrupt opposing offenses. His transition to the Commanders is seen as a fresh start, one that could lead to a more consistent performance on the field.
As Oweh embarks on this new chapter with the Commanders, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if he can live up to the expectations set by his new contract. The upcoming season will be crucial for Oweh, as he aims to solidify his place as a top-tier edge rusher in the league.