Odafe Oweh Thrives with Chargers, Projected as Top Free Agent for 2026
The Los Angeles Chargers have made a significant move in their quest to bolster their pass rush, acquiring Odafe Oweh from the Baltimore Ravens just ahead of the NFL trade deadline. This trade, which involved sending Alohi Gilman to Baltimore in exchange for Oweh and a 2027 seventh-round pick, has already begun to pay dividends.
Emerging Star After a Rocky Start
Oweh, a former first-round draft pick, initially struggled to meet the expectations set by his draft status during his time with the Ravens. However, he has shown glimpses of his potential, enough for the Chargers to take a calculated risk on the young pass rusher. Since joining the team, Oweh has made an immediate impact, recording four sacks and positioning himself as a highly sought-after free agent for the upcoming offseason.
Kristopher Knox recently highlighted Oweh as one of the top 50 free agents expected to hit the market in 2026, ranking him at No. 40. With the demand for pass-rushing talent on the rise, the Chargers must act decisively if they hope to retain Oweh in the long term.
A Promising Future Ahead
Oweh’s performance has been particularly noteworthy this season. After notching two sacks in a standout game against the Tennessee Titans, he could very well approach double-digit sacks with eight games still remaining on the schedule. Achieving this milestone would likely ignite a bidding war for his services during free agency, as teams across the league seek to enhance their defensive units.
Despite his ups and downs, Oweh’s previous accomplishment of a 10-sack season in 2024 continues to bolster his value. As Knox pointed out, “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.” By the time free agency opens, Oweh will be just 27 years old, putting him in a prime position to attract long-term offers.
Strategic Moves Necessary for Retention
Given that the Chargers have traded for a player on an expiring contract, it is critical for them to incorporate Oweh into their future plans. With the stakes high and competition fierce, the team must proactively strategize to secure his talents moving forward. As the Chargers look to solidify their defense, Odafe Oweh stands out as a pivotal piece in their ambitions for the seasons ahead.
