The Baltimore Ravens are hoping for a potential breakout season from 2021 first-round pick Odafe Oweh this year. The former Penn State standout showed promise as a rookie, but he still has a long way to go before he could truly live up to his immense potential.
To do so, he might need a little help around him.
The Ravens did make some improvements to their front seven this offseason signing both Michael Pierce and later Brent Urban in free agency while adding David Ojabo in the 2022 NFL Draft.
But they could still use some additional reinforcements. One reinforcement that’s been suggested is a player who spent all of last season with the organization — Justin Houston.
Oweh was recently asked his thoughts on Houston returning to the Ravens this summer, and he sure seemed to be in favor of it.
"“Yes, we’ve kept in touch. We were together in California like right after the season. But, yes, I’m down for whatever. Justin Houston, he taught me a lot last year. Obviously, off the field and on the field. We can use all the help we can get. So, I’m cool with it.”"
Odafe Oweh supports the Ravens re-signing Justin Houston
Houston signed a one-year, $4 million contract with the Ravens last summer, and he went on to serve a pretty important role on the team’s defense.
While his final stat line isn’t exactly going to jump out at anyone, Houston was a valuable veteran leader on defense who held his own, finishing with 4.5 sacks, 19 QB hits, and 34 total tackles.
Given the fact that Ojabo is still recovering from a torn Achilles he suffered prior to the draft, the Ravens could really use some extra outside linebacker depth. Houston makes plenty of sense for the Ravens given his familiarity with the organization.
Head coach John Harbaugh even hinted at a potential reunion when speaking to the media before the draft. It’s probably safe to say that the door is still open for a return.
Bringing Houston back would likely benefit a player like Oweh who would, in turn, not be forced to take on as much responsibility. While the Ravens are high on his future, he’s still a little rough around the edges and could use the veteran guidance.
The Ravens coaching staff supports the idea. The players do as well. Don’t be surprised if Justin Houston lands back in Baltimore before long.