The Baltimore Ravens are hoping to see a number of young players on their roster take steps forward in 2022, and one such player is outside linebacker Odafe Oweh.
To do so, however, he’ll first have to get healthy.
Oweh appeared in 15 games as a rookie but was forced to miss the final two games of the season with what was identified as a foot injury. That’s not the injury currently ailing him, though.
The former Penn State standout underwent offseason shoulder surgery a few months ago and remains sidelined while he rehabs. Oweh spoke to the media following the second day of OTAs on Wednesday and provided an update on his status.
"“Yes, honestly, I had surgery the end of January. So, [I’m] a few months out. But I feel good, I feel good. I’m just trying to strengthen it, take it day-by-day, and I’m going to be out there soon.”"
The Ravens hope that Odafe Oweh will be ready by training camp
This isn’t the first time that an update has been provided on Oweh’s timetable. Head coach John Harbaugh spoke to the media back in March and indicated that the expectation was that their young pass rusher would be ready for training camp.
Oweh did indicate that he’s still “a few months out,” however. With training camp starting in late July, that would give him about two months to continue rehabbing.
In reality, the Ravens will likely play it safe with Oweh and not rush him back. The Ravens have learned the hard way that it’s oftentimes best to take it slow with injuries like this.
Baltimore will need Oweh to make strides this year after a promising, but inconsistent rookie season. The 31st overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, Oweh finished his rookie year with five sacks, 15 QB hits, and 33 total tackles with his most impressive performances coming earlier in the year.
The Ravens want to see a more consistent Odafe Oweh in 2022. The first step toward accomplishing that is getting healthy.