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NFL Star Has Gained 20 Pounds Of Muscle Since Playoff Loss

Originally posted on The Spun | By Andrew Gould | Last updated Jun 3, 2025 2:09 PM ET

Odafe Oweh has bulked up in preparation for another playoff push.

The Baltimore Ravens linebacker recorded a career-high 10 sacks and 23 quarterback hits last season. Following a breakout year, Oweh made different gains off the field this offseason.

After adding 20 pounds of muscle, Oweh went from 245 to 265 pounds. The former first-round pick hopes the bigger frame will yield better results in his fifth NFL campaign.

"[It will help in stopping] the run," Oweh said, per Ravens.com's Ryan Mink. "And then obviously, the top of my rush, not being able to be pushed off the point, digging out the rip. And then obviously [with] power as well."

Bulked up Odafe Oweh, who gained 20 pounds this offseason. pic.twitter.com/mPVtPfY2pR
— Ryan Mink (@ryanmink) May 28, 2025

Oweh helped propel the Ravens to a first-round win over the Pittsburgh Steelers with three quarterback hits and a sack. However, he registered just one tackle in an ensuing AFC Divisional Round loss to the Buffalo Bills.

The postseason elimination motivated Oweh to train harder during the offseason.

"I didn't have the outing I wanted, so I thought a lot of that had to do with my weight and being able to be stout in certain positions," Oweh said. "So, as soon as the season was done, I went to Miami, started eating, lifting and then gaining weight, basically."

BALTIMORE, MD - OCTOBER 19: General view of M&T Bank Stadium as the Baltimore Ravens and Atlanta Falcons play at M&T Bank Stadium on October 19, 2014 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Mitchell Layton/Getty Images)

Oweh said he altered his diet to eat dry chicken, Brussels sprouts, and asparagus. The "nasty meal prep" helped the 26-year-old meet his goals.

Last year, the Ravens picked up Oweh's fifth-year option. He'll make approximately $13.3 million next season as a core piece of a defense that's finished the last three years in the top 10 or yards and points allowed.

Oweh has high personal aspirations for the 2025 season.

"Obviously, I'm just trying to be the best player for the team," Oweh said. "I would be crazy to say that's not something a little bit in the back of my mind, but every year, I try to get better, try to be better than I was last year. So to be honest, that's really what I'm focused on. I know if I do that, it's going to take care of itself."

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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