NFL News: Standout Rookie Linebacker Strongly Dislikes Being Labeled 'Pass-Rush Specialist'

Baltimore Ravens rookie outside linebacker Odafe Oweh has played a major role for them this season, but he also admitted that he hates being labeled a pass-rusher.

When asked by the media about his goal as a defensive player, Oweh told them that it is to always be on the field, no matter what the opposing offense calls.

“Yeah, that’s my goal since freshman year [with Penn State] when they were trying to make me a pass-rush specialist. I hate that,” said the 22-year-old from New Jersey.

“I don’t like doing that, so I try to make sure I’m good on every [facet of my game]. That’s definitely my goal: to try and be an every-down back.”

Oweh was drafted by the Ravens with the 31th overall pick, and many questioned them for taking a linebacker that was only able to record seven total sacks in his college career.

Under the guidance of defensive coordinator Don Martindale and linebacker coach Drew Wilkins, they transformed Oweh into an instant impact player worthy of a first-round pick.

He was a major factor in the Ravens’ razor-thin 36-35 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 2 at the M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore.

Oweh was able to record three solo tackles, forcing Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes to throw a crucial interception to Ravens cornerback Tavon Young late in the third quarter.

His best play thus far in his young career would come in the fourth quarter, a minute and a half on the clock.

Oweh read the play perfectly as he bounced off a blocker, then forced a fumble on running-back Clyde Edwards-Helaire plus the recovery to help seal the game.

The outstanding rookie was also able to produce the second sack of his NFL career against the Denver Broncos after he went flying in on quarterback Teddy Bridgewater off the right edge.

Looking ahead to their matchup with the Indianapolis Colts, Oweh remains relaxed as ever as the Ravens welcome Super Bowl-winning quarterback Carson Wentz to Baltimore for Week 5 on Monday, October 11.

“I watched a little bit [of film]. Obviously, he’s (Carson Wentz) a good quarterback and stuff like that. But we’re focused on what we gotta do. We’ll dive in deeper on what we’ve gotta look at,” Oweh nonchalantly told the media.