BALTIMORE, Md., May 29, 2025 — The Baltimore Ravens kicked off organized team activities (OTAs) with notable changes, particularly for outside linebacker Odafe Oweh, who added 20 pounds of muscle after a breakout 2024 season. Oweh, now at 265 pounds from 245, aims to bolster his run defense and pass rush, while tight end Mark Andrews and the team’s tight end trio face contract uncertainties. Safety Ar’Darius Washington, recovering from a torn Achilles, targets a late-season return.
Oweh, a 2021 first-round pick, doubled his sack total to 10 last season but was disappointed with his playoff performance in Buffalo. “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. He trained in Miami, eating “nasty meal prep” of dry chicken, Brussels sprouts, and asparagus. “[It will help in stopping] the run,” he said. “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.”
Head Coach John Harbaugh set high expectations, urging Oweh to aim for All-Pro status. “Go be the best in the business,” Harbaugh said. “And that’s tough, because there’s a lot of good players playing his position, but that’s the way he sees himself, and let’s go for it.” Oweh, playing on his fifth-year option, could earn a lucrative extension with a standout season. “I’m just trying to be the best player for the team,” Oweh said. “I know if I do that, it’s going to take care of itself.”
The Ravens’ tight end trio—Andrews, Isaiah Likely, and Charlie Kolar—returned to OTAs amid contract questions, as all are in their final contract year. Andrews, Baltimore’s career receiving touchdowns leader, turns 30 this season. “I thought [General Manager] Eric [DeCosta] had a great way of saying he’s in the business of keeping great players,” Andrews said. “And, for me, I think I’m a great player. I think I’ve been able to do it at the highest level [with] the best of the best for a long time, and I’m not slowing down.”
Likely, coming off a 2024 season with 42 catches for 477 yards and six touchdowns, expressed loyalty to Baltimore. “I tell everybody I love the Ravens, I love the city,” Likely said. “You all brought me in and made me feel like I’m part of a family. But I try to stay where my feet are. Just play, have fun, and let the plays happen. And then whatever happens, I let God take care of that.” Kolar, who improved as an in-line blocker last year, also seeks his first major deal.
Washington’s Achilles injury, a “clean tear,” offers hope for a November or December return. “Ar’Darius tells me he’ll be back in November,” Harbaugh said. “He’s always been a quick healer. I’m looking at November/December in my mind, so yes, we’re counting on him being back.” Harbaugh praised Washington’s growth, noting, “Nobody deserves opportunity and success more than Ar’Darius Washington, and nobody’s going to fight harder for it.”
Harbaugh also confirmed plans for joint practices with the Indianapolis Colts and Washington Commanders this summer, likely one day each, ahead of preseason games on August 7 against the Colts and August 23 at Washington. Details are still being finalized.
Oweh’s physical transformation builds on his refined pass-rush moves from 2024, when he leveraged his athleticism to become a disruptive force. His added weight aims to address weaknesses exposed in the playoffs, particularly against the run. Andrews, Likely, and Kolar form one of the NFL’s top tight end groups, with Likely emerging as a key target for quarterback Lamar Jackson on extended plays. Washington’s potential return could strengthen a secondary that relied on his versatility before his injury.
As the Ravens prepare for the 2025 season, OTAs highlight a team balancing immediate goals with long-term roster decisions. Oweh’s development, the tight ends’ contract situations, and Washington’s recovery will shape Baltimore’s campaign, with joint practices and preseason games offering early tests.
