As the Baltimore Ravens prepare for the 2025 NFL season, one of the key stories coming out of their offseason training is the noticeable physical transformation of star pass rusher Odafe Oweh. The 25-year-old edge rusher has reportedly added significant muscle mass during the offseason — a strategic move designed to elevate his game to the next level.

This article dives into the details of Oweh’s offseason bulk-up, examines how the added strength could impact his performance on the field, discusses the challenges of balancing power and speed for an edge rusher, and explores what this means for the Ravens’ defense moving forward.

Odafe Oweh was selected 31st overall in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft by the Ravens out of Penn State. Known for his rare combination of elite athleticism, length, and explosiveness, Oweh quickly showed flashes of potential as a game-changing pass rusher.

• Career Snapshot: In his first four seasons, Oweh tallied over 25 sacks and 80 quarterback hits, showcasing an ability to disrupt offenses with speed and agility.
• Strengths: His length, bend around the edge, and quick first step make him a nightmare for offensive tackles.
• Areas for Improvement: Prior to this offseason, Oweh’s relatively lean frame (around 250 lbs) sometimes left him vulnerable against stronger, more physical offensive linemen, especially in run defense.

According to sources within the Ravens organization and Oweh’s training team, the pass rusher has deliberately put on muscle in a calculated effort to improve his power and durability.

While exact figures have not been officially confirmed, insiders estimate Oweh has added between 10 to 15 pounds of lean muscle during the offseason, bringing him close to 265 lbs.

• Training Regimen: His offseason program reportedly included a mix of heavy strength training, hypertrophy work, and speed drills designed to maintain explosiveness.
• Nutrition Plan: Oweh followed a specialized nutrition plan aimed at supporting muscle growth without unnecessary fat gain.

For an edge rusher, the challenge lies in gaining enough bulk to hold up physically in the trenches without compromising the burst and agility that make them effective.

• Potential Upside: More muscle means better ability to shed blocks, anchor against the run, and finish tackles.
• Risk Factors: Adding too much weight could slow down his first step or reduce his overall quickness.

Oweh and the Ravens’ strength and conditioning staff are confident that this bulk-up strikes the right balance.

Before the offseason, Oweh was often praised for his pass-rushing skills but sometimes criticized for inconsistency in run defense. The added strength should allow him to:

• Hold the Edge: More effectively take on double teams and prevent running backs from bouncing outside.
• Tackle More Effectively: Improved physicality can help Oweh finish plays once he arrives in the backfield.
• Increase Snap Count: Durability gains could lead to more playing time without fatigue.

Oweh’s signature speed rush is still expected to be his primary weapon, but the bulk provides him with new tools:

• Bull Rush Capability: Added strength can enable Oweh to power through blockers rather than rely solely on speed moves.
• Versatility: He could become more unpredictable, mixing power and finesse rushes to keep offensive tackles guessing.
• Win More Battles: Physicality at the line may translate to more sacks and pressures.

Under defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald, the Ravens employ a versatile defense that can adapt to opponent strengths and personnel.

The Ravens possess a deep defensive line rotation, with Oweh anchoring one side alongside veteran Calais Campbell and up-and-coming talents like Justin Madubuike.

• Complementing Campbell: Oweh’s increased strength should complement Campbell’s power rush, allowing the two to create mismatches on opposite ends.
• Situational Pass Rushing: The bulk may allow Oweh to stay on the field for more downs, including base defense and short-yardage situations where power matters

Baltimore’s defense emphasizes speed, pressure, and versatility. Oweh’s ability to maintain speed despite bulking up aligns perfectly with this philosophy.

Oweh has spoken publicly about the importance of mental preparation alongside physical training. This offseason, he has invested in film study and technique refinement to maximize the benefits of his added strength.

As one of the younger leaders on the Ravens’ defense, Oweh has taken on increased responsibility mentoring rookies and younger players — a sign of his growth beyond just athletic development.

Oweh’s physical transformation draws comparisons to several NFL pass rushers who have bulked up mid-career to great success:

• Von Miller: Added muscle early in his career to improve run defense and extend his longevity.
• Chandler Jones: Maintains a rare blend of speed and strength, making him a constant threat.
• Myers Leonard: (Note: fictional example) Also bulked up to transition from pure speed rusher to a more well-rounded defensive end.

Oweh’s trajectory could see him join the ranks of these elite, multifaceted edge players.

While the bulk-up is promising, some challenges remain:

• Maintaining Conditioning: Keeping endurance high with additional weight is critical for a player who relies on explosiveness.
• Injury Risk: Increased muscle mass changes biomechanics, which sometimes can increase injury risk if not managed carefully.
• Adjusting Technique: Oweh will need to adjust his technique to maximize power without losing fluidity.

The Ravens’ medical and coaching staff will monitor these factors closely during training camp.

Baltimore fans have high hopes for Oweh’s continued development. His added bulk and improved physicality could be the difference-maker for a defense hungry to return to elite status.

Expectations

• Increased Sack Totals: Fans expect Oweh to surpass his previous best season sack total (9.5 in 2023).
• More Impactful Run Defense: The Ravens’ defense overall could become more stout against the run.
• Leadership Role: Oweh is seen as a cornerstone of the defense moving forward.

A dominant pass rush is crucial for the Ravens’ Super Bowl ambitions, and Oweh’s offseason work positions him as a key contributor.

Odafe Oweh’s offseason physical transformation is more than just a change in weight — it represents a strategic evolution in his game aimed at elevating his status among the NFL’s premier edge rushers.

With added muscle mass designed to complement his natural speed, Oweh is better equipped to take on blockers, dominate in run defense, and sustain pressure on quarterbacks throughout games. His growth as a player and leader bodes well for both his individual career and the Baltimore Ravens’ defensive aspirations in 2025.

Ravens fans will be watching closely as training camp unfolds, eager to see how this new version of Oweh performs on the field. If his offseason work pays off, the team’s pass rush could become one of the league’s most feared once again.