Baltimore Ravens outside linebacker Odafe Oweh has undergone a significant physical transformation this offseason, adding 20 pounds of muscle to become a more powerful pass rusher. At 265 pounds — the heaviest he has ever been — Oweh has already noticed a difference during offseason practices, where blockers are visibly more affected by his push. His decision to bulk up came immediately following a disappointing performance in the Ravens’ 27-25 playoff loss to the Buffalo Bills, where he recorded just one tackle and no impactful plays.
Oweh’s Grueling Offseason Fueled by Playoff Disappointment and Contract Year Motivation
Determined to improve, Oweh headed to Miami after the season and committed himself to a strict regimen of training and eating. His diet was far from enjoyable, consisting largely of dry chicken, Brussels sprouts, and asparagus, but it served its purpose.
He emphasized the difficulty of maintaining the diet and intense workout schedule, but acknowledged it was necessary to improve his game. The added weight aims to make him more effective in holding ground and shedding blocks during critical plays.
Odafe Oweh Adds 20 Pounds of Muscle, Eyes Breakout Season and All-Pro Honors in 2025
Odafe Oweh Adds 20 Pounds of Muscle, Eyes Breakout Season and All-Pro Honors in 2025
While his playoff struggles fueled his offseason efforts, there’s also a looming financial incentive. Oweh is entering the final year of his rookie contract under the fifth-year option worth $13.251 million. With the potential to hit unrestricted free agency in 2026, he’s well aware that a strong season could secure a lucrative long-term deal.
Although he admits that contract implications are in the back of his mind, Oweh insists his primary focus is on personal development and consistent improvement.
Oweh Poised for Breakout Year, Aiming for Consistency and All-Pro Recognition Ahead
Oweh has already demonstrated considerable progress, especially in the 2024 season, where he posted career highs of 10 sacks and 23 quarterback hits. Drafted in the first round in 2021, he now has 13 career sacks and is poised to become the first Ravens draftee to notch double-digit sacks in consecutive seasons since Terrell Suggs in 2013–2014.
His coach, John Harbaugh, has publicly praised Oweh’s offseason work ethic and physical development, suggesting that he is on track to reach All-Pro status if he maintains this trajectory.
Looking ahead, Oweh has set ambitious — though undisclosed — goals for the upcoming season. With the Ravens set to face top-tier quarterbacks like Josh Allen, Jared Goff, and Patrick Mahomes in the opening weeks, his ability to make an impact will be tested right away.
Coach John Harbaugh fully believes in Oweh’s potential, urging him to strive to be the best at his position despite stiff competition. Oweh’s transformation goes beyond the physical; it reflects a focused and determined mindset that could push him into the ranks of the NFL’s elite.