Ravens OLB Odafe Oweh added 20 pounds to his frame, aiming to elevate his game and become an All-Pro player.

When it comes to building an elite NFL pass rusher, physical development is just as important as technique, instincts, and work ethic. For Baltimore Ravens outside linebacker Odafe Oweh, the offseason has been all about transformation — putting on 20 pounds of muscle to become a more dominant and versatile force on the field. This weight gain is more than just a number; it’s a strategic move designed to elevate his game and fulfill his goal of becoming an All-Pro.

Oweh’s journey from a raw, athletic prospect to a polished, high-impact defender has been one of consistent growth, fueled by determination and a clear vision of his potential. Adding significant mass to his frame is a calculated step to help him withstand the physical demands of the NFL, improve his pass-rushing arsenal, and become a key piece in the Ravens’ defensive puzzle.

In this article, we’ll explore how Odafe Oweh gained 20 pounds, what that means for his role with Baltimore, and why he and the Ravens believe this transformation can push him into elite status.

Odafe Oweh’s Background: Athleticism Meets Potential

Selected 31st overall in the 2020 NFL Draft out of Penn State, Odafe Oweh entered the league with elite speed, explosiveness, and raw talent. At Penn State, Oweh was known for his ability to track down quarterbacks and create havoc with his athleticism. However, scouts and coaches noted that he needed to refine his technique, improve his strength, and add physical bulk to compete consistently against NFL linemen.

The Ravens saw that potential and drafted Oweh with an eye toward his development into a game-changing edge rusher. Over his first few seasons, Oweh flashed brilliance but also showed room for improvement, especially in maintaining power through contact and finishing plays against bigger offensive linemen.

The Importance of Adding Mass for a Pass Rusher

At roughly 6-foot-4 and 245 pounds entering the NFL, Oweh was already a formidable physical specimen. Yet in the NFL, where offensive tackles routinely weigh well over 300 pounds, edge rushers need more than just speed — they need strength, power, and leverage.

Adding 20 pounds of muscle does several things for a player like Oweh:

• Improves Strength at the Point of Attack: Being heavier allows him to hold his ground against blockers and use his hands more effectively.
• Enhances Explosiveness: Proper muscle mass helps generate more force and burst off the snap.
• Increases Durability: The NFL grind is brutal; extra mass can help prevent injuries and improve recovery.
• Versatility: A stronger frame enables Oweh to play multiple roles — rushing the passer, setting the edge against the run, and even dropping into coverage when needed.

In short, this weight gain is about building a foundation for long-term success.

How Odafe Oweh Added 20 Pounds

Gaining 20 pounds of quality muscle is no easy feat, especially for an elite athlete who already trains at a high level. It requires a meticulous combination of nutrition, strength training, and recovery.

1. Nutrition and Diet

Oweh worked closely with the Ravens’ nutritionists to develop a calorie-surplus meal plan focused on muscle gain without sacrificing speed or agility. This included:

• Increasing protein intake for muscle repair and growth.
• Incorporating complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.
• Strategic supplementation to support recovery.

2. Strength and Conditioning

The Ravens’ strength and conditioning staff designed a personalized program emphasizing:

• Hypertrophy Training: Focused on building muscle size through controlled weightlifting routines.
• Power and Explosiveness: Olympic lifts and plyometric exercises to maintain and enhance speed.
• Functional Strength: Movements mimicking on-field actions to improve blocking and tackling power.

3. Recovery and Rest

Muscle growth happens during recovery, so Oweh prioritized:

• Quality sleep.
• Physiotherapy and massage.
• Hydration and proper rest days.

Early Results and On-Field Impact

Though Oweh’s transformation is still ongoing, early reports from Ravens coaches and teammates highlight noticeable changes:

• More Physical Presence: Oweh has shown increased ability to engage and shed blockers at the line of scrimmage.
• Improved Pass Rush: His added strength translates to more powerful bull rushes and better leverage moves.
• Confidence Boost: Feeling stronger and more durable has helped his mental approach to games and practices.

Head coach John Harbaugh recently remarked, “Odafe has put in the work this offseason. The goal for him is to be All-Pro, and adding that muscle mass is a key part of making that happen.”

Ravens Defensive Scheme and Oweh’s Role

The Ravens’ defensive scheme relies heavily on dynamic pass rushers who can pressure quarterbacks and stop the run. With veteran edge rusher Matthew Judon alongside Oweh, Baltimore’s front seven is shaping up to be formidable.

Oweh’s added size allows defensive coordinator to deploy him in multiple ways:

• As a primary pass rusher in obvious passing situations.
• Setting the edge and containing the run on early downs.
• Rotating inside as a linebacker in certain packages.

This versatility makes Oweh invaluable and opens up opportunities for him to make impactful plays across the field.

Comparing Oweh’s Transformation to Other NFL Stars

Many elite pass rushers have undergone similar physical transformations early in their careers to elevate their game. Examples include:

• Chase Young (Washington Commanders): Added muscle between his rookie and sophomore seasons, becoming more dominant.
• Myles Garrett (Cleveland Browns): Known for his strength and technique, Garrett’s offseason training continually improves his power.

Oweh’s commitment to adding quality mass puts him on a path similar to these premier edge rushers, signaling his intent to join the league’s elite.

What Becoming an All-Pro Means for Oweh and the Ravens

An All-Pro selection is a prestigious honor recognizing the best players at each position. For Oweh, achieving All-Pro status means:

• Validation of his hard work and development.
• Increased recognition and respect across the league.
• Potential leadership role within the Ravens defense.

For Baltimore, having a true All-Pro edge rusher helps:

• Anchor their defensive front.
• Improve overall team competitiveness.
• Provide a cornerstone for building a championship-caliber roster.

Challenges Ahead for Odafe Oweh

While adding weight and muscle is an important step, Oweh’s journey to All-Pro status is not without hurdles:

• Consistency: Maintaining high-level production throughout the season.
• Health: Avoiding injuries and staying durable over a grueling NFL campaign.
• Refining Technique: Developing pass-rushing moves and countermeasures to offensive adjustments.

Oweh’s ability to combine his physical transformation with mental growth and technical skill will determine his ultimate success.

Fans and Media Reaction

Ravens fans have greeted Oweh’s offseason dedication with optimism. Social media buzz has praised his work ethic, while analysts see the added mass as a positive indicator of his commitment to improvement.

Sports media outlets have highlighted Oweh as a player to watch in 2025, noting that his physical growth aligns with his breakout potential.

Odafe Oweh’s 20-pound weight gain is more than just a physical transformation — it represents a commitment to becoming one of the NFL’s top defensive players. With a balanced approach to nutrition, training, and recovery, he’s positioning himself to reach new heights in his career.

The Ravens have invested in Oweh’s development, confident that his growth will translate to more sacks, tackles, and game-changing plays. For Oweh, the goal is clear: to be All-Pro, to be a cornerstone of Baltimore’s defense, and to make a lasting impact on the NFL.

If he continues on this trajectory, 2025 could very well be the year Odafe Oweh emerges as one of the league’s most dominant pass rushers.