David Ojabo has endured a challenging start to his NFL career, but the Baltimore Ravens’ edge rusher is finally in a position to showcase his full potential. After two seasons marred by injuries and rehabilitation, Ojabo is enjoying his first healthy offseason, and the difference is palpable. The 23-year-old is focused on playing fast, having fun, and proving why the Ravens believed in him when they selected him in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft.
Ojabo’s journey to this point has been anything but smooth. A standout at Michigan, he exploded onto the scene in 2021 with 11 sacks and five forced fumbles, forming a dominant pass-rushing duo with eventual No. 2 overall pick Aidan Hutchinson. His explosive first step and bend around the edge made him a tantalizing prospect, but his draft stock took a hit when he suffered a torn Achilles during Michigan’s pro day. Despite the injury, the Ravens took a chance on him, betting on his long-term upside.
His rookie season was essentially a redshirt year as he worked his way back from the Achilles tear. He made his NFL debut in Week 14 but played just three games before a quad injury ended his season prematurely. In 2023, he showed flashes of his potential—recording his first career sack against the Indianapolis Colts—but consistency was hard to find as he continued to work his way into football shape. Now, with a full offseason to train rather than rehab, Ojabo feels like a different player.
“This is the first time I’ve really been able to just focus on football and not worry about recovering,” Ojabo said. “I’m not playing catch-up anymore. I’m able to work on my craft, refine my technique, and just play free.” That freedom is evident in his approach. Instead of thinking through every step, he’s reacting instinctively, trusting his athleticism, and playing with the same explosiveness that made him a star at Michigan.
The Ravens’ coaching staff has noticed the difference. Defensive coordinator Zach Orr has praised Ojabo’s progress, emphasizing his improved burst and hand usage. “David’s always had the talent,” Orr said. “Now, he’s putting it all together. He’s playing with confidence, and that’s huge for a young pass rusher.” Head coach John Harbaugh, who has seen his fair share of talented edge rushers over the years, has also been encouraged by Ojabo’s development. “He’s attacking this offseason the right way,” Harbaugh said. “You can see the growth every day.”
For Ojabo, the key has been rediscovering the joy of the game. The past two years were mentally taxing as he battled through setbacks and the pressure of living up to expectations. Now, he’s letting his natural ability take over. “When you’re hurt, you overthink everything,” he said. “But now, I’m just going out there and having fun. That’s when I’m at my best.”
The Ravens need Ojabo to take a significant step forward in 2024. With Odafe Oweh showing promise on the opposite edge and veteran Kyle Van Noy providing leadership, Baltimore’s pass rush has the potential to be a major strength. But Ojabo’s ceiling is what could take the unit to another level. His combination of speed, flexibility, and developing power makes him a nightmare for offensive tackles when he’s at full strength. If he can stay healthy, he could be the breakout player the Ravens’ defense has been waiting for.
Teammates have also taken notice of Ojabo’s renewed energy. Veteran linebacker Roquan Smith, one of the defense’s leaders, has been vocal in his support. “David’s a special talent,” Smith said. “When he’s locked in, he’s unstoppable. This year, you’re seeing a guy who knows he belongs.” That belief in himself is critical. Pass rushers thrive on confidence, and after two years of adversity, Ojabo is finally in a position to play with swagger.
The mental aspect of his game has been just as important as the physical. Ojabo has spent time studying film with Ravens outside linebackers coach Chuck Smith, focusing on the nuances of pass-rushing—setting up tackles with counter moves, recognizing blocking schemes, and refining his get-off. “It’s not just about being fast,” Ojabo said. “It’s about being smart, too. The great ones know how to attack an offensive lineman’s weaknesses, and that’s what I’m working on.”
His progress will be crucial for a Ravens team with Super Bowl aspirations. Baltimore’s defense was among the league’s best in 2023, but generating consistent pressure without blitzing was an issue at times. If Ojabo can emerge as a reliable threat off the edge, it would allow Orr to be more creative with his schemes, freeing up opportunities for other playmakers like Justin Madubuike and Patrick Queen.
Of course, the biggest question surrounding Ojabo is durability. He has yet to play a full NFL season, and his injury history is a concern. However, the Ravens are cautiously optimistic. Their training staff has worked closely with him to ensure he’s not only recovered but stronger than before. Ojabo has added muscle to his frame without sacrificing speed, and his conditioning has improved dramatically. “I feel like I’m in the best shape of my life,” he said. “I’m ready for whatever comes my way.”
The upcoming season will be a defining one for Ojabo. The Ravens have shown patience with his development, but in the NFL, opportunities aren’t unlimited. With his physical tools and now a clear mind, he has all the ingredients for a breakout year. More than anything, he’s determined to prove that the wait was worth it. “I know what I’m capable of,” he said. “Now it’s time to show it.”
For Ravens fans, that’s an exciting proposition. If Ojabo can stay on the field and play with the same explosiveness he displayed at Michigan, Baltimore’s defense could reach new heights. And for Ojabo himself, it’s a chance to finally enjoy the game the way he always envisioned—fast, free, and with a smile on his face. After two years of setbacks, the real David Ojabo might just be ready to take flight.
