In today's NFL landscape, sacks are becoming a rare commodity, and this shift is creating a unique market for defensive stars, particularly edge rushers. As offenses evolve to protect their quarterbacks more effectively, the value of a player like Odafe Oweh is skyrocketing.
Oweh, currently with the Los Angeles Chargers, has been a topic of debate. Should the Chargers use their franchise tag on him?
It's a question worth pondering, especially considering the potential impact on their roster. Oweh's performance last season, with 7.5 sacks in just 12 games and an impressive 3 sacks in a playoff bout against the New England Patriots, highlights his growing importance in a league where sacks are declining.
Let's dive into the numbers. Since 2023, defensive sacks have steadily decreased: 1,410 in 2023, 1,314 in 2024, and 1,287 in 2025. This trend underscores the increasing proficiency of offensive lines and quarterbacks in mitigating defensive pressure.
Now, let's talk about the free agent market. The top edge rushers available this year are seasoned veterans: Trey Hendrickson (31), Khalil Mack (35), Bradley Chubb (30), Joey Bosa (31), Cameron Jordan (37), and Von Miller (37).
At 27, Oweh is entering his prime, making him a highly attractive option for teams looking to invest in the future. It's not far-fetched to predict that Oweh could command the highest salary among these players if he hits free agency.
With about half of the NFL's 32 teams in the hunt for a new starting edge rusher, the demand is palpable. Some will turn to the free agent market, others to the draft, where three edge rushers are projected to go in the top 10 picks in 2026. For teams like the Chargers, utilizing the franchise tag on Oweh could be a strategic move, allowing them to maintain a competitive edge in a league where pass rushing prowess is becoming a scarce asset.
For the Chargers, focusing on their pass rush could be a key differentiator. While other teams build around cost-effective quarterbacks, the Chargers might find their strength in a formidable defensive line. In a league where defensive stars are aging and sacks are dwindling, keeping a young, talented rusher like Oweh could be the blueprint for sustained success.