2021 Raiders Draft Prospect
Name: Jayson Oweh
Position: EDGE
School: Penn State
Height: 6’5″
Weight: 257 pounds
Stats
Pass Rush
While the EDGE’s rush palette isn’t refined, the athleticism gives him a stronger foundation than most. At Penn State, you saw a hyperathletic player, winning with ability. In contrast, the technical acumen needs serious development. To his credit, he does bring a stutter bull to the table. The EDGE attempts to make the blocker lean with footwork before converting speed to power.
Strength
Like many college edge rushers, Oweh needs to address the lack of power. Granted, he won’t transform into a brutal end, forklifting tackles on his way to the quarterback. However, as mentioned, his long limbs should be used better to bully the occasional tight end or chipping back. Basically, the prospect needs functional strength. This will help with shedding blocks.
Agility
Oweh implements his nimbleness in all facets of the game. First, he will use a sudden shoulder dip to evade a punch attempt. Gliding under the blocker’s hands, keeping his feet and momentum forward, the prospect breaks into the backfield. Next, he will use his feet to get the tackle shuffling and resetting his feet.
Tackling
When squared on the target, the prospect shines. The PSU EDGE sinks his hips. sits behind his pads, using a sturdy wrap. In contrast, angles give him a big of trouble. Reaching and lurching with the arms will result in broken tackles at the next level. Oweh must tackle with his feet first. Spacing with crisper vision will help him on Sundays.
Run Stopping
Until Oweh grasps the nuance of timing, leverage, quick shed, and vision, he needs to slowly learn this role. While his first step, as mentioned, can beat the blocker to the spot, the run game needs adjustment. Tackles lock on to Oweh, washing him out of the play, allowing the back playside to attack Oweh’s side.
Raiders Fit
Greener than a four-leaf clover, Oweh easily transitions to the situational pass rusher role. For Gus Bradley, he needs edge help with the versatility of a stand-up rusher. Everyone knows that Clelin Ferrell presents as a third-down, interior rusher. So, kick him inside, bookend Oweh and Crosby, and let them go. However, Oweh will test Rod Marinelli. Arriving from State College, the prospect enters with tools but no direction. The Raiders retained Marinelli for rushers like Oweh. Teachable moments, and learning on the job will see the rookie struggle early in camp, but his natural ability remains undeniable. The Las Vegas Raiders can not only improve their end depth but improve the position athletically. Like it or not, adding pass rush in droves, is one of the keys to beating the Chiefs.
