Film Session: Why the Commanders are betting big on Odafe Oweh

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - DECEMBER 27: Odafe Oweh #98 of the Los Angeles Chargers runs onto the field during team introductions prior to the NFL 2025 game between Houston Texans and Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium on December 27, 2025 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images) | Getty Images The Washington Commanders have shown their hand; they are betting on an ascending Odafe Oweh to elevate their front seven. The 27-year-old defensive end signed a four-year, $100 million contract during free agency with Washington, and for me, GM Adam Peters and company only hit on this signing if Oweh is a consistent, productive pass rusher.

Washington signed Oweh at a great time; he is entering his peak and has high upside as a pass rusher. In the latest Trap or Dive film session, I broke down what Washington is getting from Oweh right now and highlighted the consistency issues that have not yet fully developed into an all-around edge defender. What is most impressive about Oweh is his willingness to dive deep into his pass-rush toolbox.

Oweh has an effective speed-to-power rush, as well as secondary moves to win engagements with offensive linemen. Oweh’s chop-rip is his most effective rush move with hand usage, but he also has the ability to set linemen up with swim moves. In the film session, I break down how he wins in these situations, but his athleticism is even more impressive.

In straight-line situations, he can really affect quarterbacks and the pass game. He has elite foot speed for a defensive end and has very good closing speed, too, which is most noticeable in straight-line situations where he isn’t required to navigate through much traffic toward the quarterback. Oweh is not an effective edge defender against the run, which makes his ability to win in the pass game even more critical for both him and Washington.