Ravens shake up struggling defense by trading pass rusher Oweh: "Slumping pass rusher"
The Baltimore Ravens have traded pass rusher Odafe Oweh to the Los Angeles Chargers in exchange for safety Alohi Gilman and a seventh-round pick.
Why it matters: This trade marks a significant shift for both franchises as they look to address pressing defensive needs amid disappointing performances in the early part of the season.
- The Ravens, currently ranked last in the NFL in points allowed per game (35.4) and 31st in pass defense (262.4 yards per game), are desperately seeking solutions to their struggles on the defensive side of the ball.
- Conversely, the Chargers are looking to bolster their pass rush following the injury to veteran Khalil Mack, hoping Oweh can recapture his previous form.
What’s new: Oweh’s move comes after a lackluster start to the season where he has yet to record a sack through the first five games, a stark contrast to his career-high of 10 sacks last season.
- His playing time has dropped to a career-low of 45% of the Ravens’ defensive snaps this season, highlighting the team’s need for fresh talent.
- In return, the Ravens acquire Gilman, who was instrumental in the Chargers' top-ranked defense last year.
Yes, but: While the Ravens free up approximately $8 million in cap space with this trade, losing a player like Oweh may have implications for their pass rush moving forward.
- Oweh is currently ranked 33rd in the NFL in pressure rate at 11%, indicating that while he has potential, he has struggled to make an impact thus far this season.
- The Chargers, on the other hand, will be counting on Oweh to fill the gaps in their pass rush, especially as they aim for a deeper playoff run.
What to watch: Keep an eye on how Gilman integrates into the Ravens' secondary alongside C.J. Gardner-Johnson and fellow safety Kyle Hamilton once he returns from injury.
- Ravens head coach Jim Harbaugh noted the importance of bolstering the safety position: “Gilman and Gardner-Johnson could help even when Hamilton returns,” signaling the team's intent to strengthen their defensive backfield.
By the numbers: The trade highlights contrasting trajectories for both teams; the Ravens are struggling defensively despite their previous success with Oweh, while the Chargers hope to maximize Oweh’s untapped potential.
- The Chargers have not received strong production from their outside linebackers, with Caleb Murphy ranking 131st in pressure rate among those positions, underscoring the urgency for Oweh to perform.
The bottom line: This trade represents a calculated gamble by both the Ravens and Chargers as they navigate challenging seasons, each hoping that the transaction will lead to improvement in their respective defensive units.
