Ravens Trade Odafe Oweh to Chargers for Safety Alohi Gilman: Source
The trade between the Baltimore Ravens and the Los Angeles Chargers has been confirmed, with edge player Odafe Oweh moving to Los Angeles. In exchange, the Ravens receive safety Alohi Gilman. This trade was first reported by NFL Network.
Details on Odafe Oweh’s Performance
Odafe Oweh was selected by the Ravens as a first-round pick in 2021. He recently experienced a disappointing season, finishing with 10 sacks. However, this year Oweh has not registered any sacks in five games and has played only 45% of the Ravens’ defensive snaps. His decreased playing time suggests a lack of trust from the coaching staff regarding his run defense capabilities.
Ravens’ Defense Struggles
- Oweh is a pending free agent with no progress on contract extension talks during the offseason.
- His departure creates nearly $8 million in salary cap space for the Ravens.
- The team currently ties for second-to-last in the league with six total sacks this season.
- Current edge rushers include Kyle Van Noy, Tavius Robinson, Mike Green, and David Ojabo, contributing only three sacks combined.
Impact on the Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers remain under pressure due to injuries limiting their offensive line. Key players like Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater are currently sidelined. However, acquiring Oweh provides a potential solution for their defensive line issues, particularly after losing star edge rusher Khalil Mack to an elbow injury earlier in the season.
Challenges for the Chargers’ Defensive Line
- Edge rusher Tuli Tuipulotu leads the team with 27 pressures.
- Other edge defenders have struggled, with no player surpassing eight pressures.
- Bud Dupree, while reliable, cannot fully replace Mack’s contributions.
- Rookie Kyle Kennard has yet to prove his worth on the field.
Alohi Gilman’s Role in Baltimore
In returning to the Ravens, Alohi Gilman adds depth to a secondary grappling with injuries. The Ravens are currently without cornerback Marlon Humphrey and All-Pro safety Kyle Hamilton. Gilman’s adaptability will be instrumental when Hamilton returns, potentially allowing for more dynamic defensive schemes.
Combined Strength with C.J. Gardner-Johnson
The signing of veteran safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson along with Gilman enhances the Ravens’ flexibility in their secondary. This may relieve pressure on their currently struggling pass rush and run defense, particularly against future opponents.
Future Prospects for Odafe Oweh
Oweh’s youth and prior production mark him as a valuable addition for the Chargers. Familiarity with the defensive schemes run by Chargers’ coordinator Jesse Minter gives him an added advantage. The trade signifies the Chargers’ commitment to addressing their defensive shortcomings while capitalizing on their surplus of safeties.
This trade between the Ravens and Chargers highlights key strategic adjustments for both teams as they navigate the season’s challenges.
