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49ers Eyeing Pass Rusher Oweh: High Cost, Limited Role?
7 Feb
Summary
- Oweh is a former first-round pick with 17.5 sacks in two seasons.
- His role is situational, struggling against the run and on early downs.
- Oweh is projected to seek a three-year deal worth $57 million.
The San Francisco 49ers are considering free agency to enhance their defensive line and pass rush capabilities. Odafe Oweh, a former first-round pick of the Baltimore Ravens and most recently with the Los Angeles Chargers, has surfaced as a potential acquisition.
Over the last two seasons, Oweh has recorded 17.5 sacks, demonstrating significant impact as a pass rusher. Despite this production, his role has been situational, often being substituted out on early downs due to difficulties defending the run.
This dichotomy creates a complex contract negotiation scenario. While his sack totals suggest a player worthy of a substantial deal, his limited versatility may align him more with a specialist role. The 49ers could potentially cut Bryce Huff and allocate his saved funds to Oweh.
Mykel Williams could handle early-down run defense, allowing Oweh to enter on passing downs. This strategic alignment could also enable Williams to shift inside on pass-rush situations, strengthening the defensive front.
The primary obstacle remains Oweh's projected contract: a three-year deal around $57 million, according to Spotrac. His draft pedigree and recent statistics position him for a lucrative free agency, posing the question of whether the 49ers will commit significant resources to a player with a narrowly defined role.
