Listening to new Washington Commanders edge rusher Odafe Oweh on Tuesday, you could already hear Dan Quinn’s influence.
During their second OTA session this summer, Oweh briefly spoke with the media. First, Oweh discussed how new defensive coordinator Daronte Jones’ scheme is one he really likes and believes can be successful with this defensive unit.
“I think we do a good job of getting a lot of one-on-ones,” Oweh said. “You know, attack mentality. That’s the style I love to play in, and that I want to continue to play in.”
Oweh then took it a step further, predicting that this unit would be successful.
“I think this defense is really going to allow a lot of people to wreak havoc. Not just me, but D-tackles, D Payne, Charles (Omenihu), KC (K’Lavon Chaisson). So, it will be a lot of havoc, to be honest.”
The former Ravens‘ first-round pick (31st overall) in 2021 has had high expectations to be an impactful player. He has had some success in Baltimore and then with the Chargers. He is now being paid much more by the Commanders. How does he handle expectations?
“Just focus on the main thing, just getting better every day. I’ve had expectations since I started playing this sport. Focus on your work, focus on your teammates, the people that are helping you, it’s a team game as well. So if you focus on all of that, it is going to take care of itself.”
Odafe Oweh 12 Games, 7.5 SCK, 28 TKL, 29 Pressures 2025 Season Highlights.
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With the struggles last season here in Washington, what is Oweh looking for to see that this team is headed in the right direction?
“The wanting to communicate, the wanting to actually be a team. Obviously, it’s a business, and I’m a new guy. It’s a whole different team than last year. But this team, everyone is trying to get to know each other, be an actual person. If we do that, then when we go out to war, you will want to fight for your brother. So, I’ll say that is number one.”
Dan Quinn had to be pleased when he heard Oweh had exhibited he is buying into Quinn’s vision of a brotherhood, working together for the success of the whole.
This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Washington Commanders: Odafe Oweh has high expectations in 2026