The Baltimore Ravens have made a series of decisive moves to strengthen their secondary as the 2025 season heats up. In a surprising trade, Baltimore sent edge rusher Odafe Oweh to the Los Angeles Chargers in exchange for safety Alohi Gilman, while also signing C.J. Gardner-Johnson to the practice squad.
The Chargers confirmed the trade early Wednesday morning with an emotional farewell post on X (formerly Twitter):
“Thank you, Alohi 🤙” — @chargers
Fans quickly flooded the post with messages of gratitude for Gilman’s contributions. One user wrote, “Will never forget that game-sealing interception against the Chiefs,” referencing one of Gilman’s most iconic moments in a Chargers uniform.
Alohi Gilman Brings Leadership to Baltimore
Alohi Gilman, drafted in 2020 out of Notre Dame, spent four productive seasons with the Chargers. Known for his intelligence, leadership, and physical tackling, Gilman became one of Los Angeles’ most reliable defenders. Over his tenure, he recorded more than 180 tackles, six interceptions, and multiple forced fumbles, consistently making clutch plays in key situations.
Baltimore’s defense has faced challenges this season due to injuries in the secondary, prompting the front office to act. Gilman’s arrival provides immediate experience and depth at safety, where he’s expected to pair with Kyle Hamilton in a versatile back-end combination.
Ravens head coach John Harbaugh has emphasized the importance of adaptability and communication on defense — two traits that define Gilman’s playing style. His ability to play both deep coverage and in-the-box safety roles makes him an ideal fit for Baltimore’s hybrid defensive scheme.
Gilman’s high football IQ, combined with his leadership presence, could stabilize the Ravens’ secondary heading into a critical stretch of divisional matchups.
C.J. Gardner-Johnson Joins the Practice Squad
Alongside the trade, the Ravens also signed C.J. Gardner-Johnson to their practice squad. The veteran defensive back brings valuable experience, energy, and versatility to a defense that thrives on aggressiveness.
Gardner-Johnson’s familiarity with multiple defensive roles — from slot corner to safety — adds strategic flexibility for the coaching staff. While he’ll begin on the practice squad, his leadership and intensity make him a strong candidate for promotion if injuries arise or additional depth is required.
The move demonstrates Baltimore’s proactive approach to maintaining a strong defensive foundation as the season progresses.
Odafe Oweh Gets a Fresh Start
For Odafe Oweh, the trade marks a new chapter in his young career. Drafted by the Ravens in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft, Oweh entered the league with elite athleticism and potential but struggled to consistently produce over four seasons.
Oweh recorded flashes of brilliance — including game-changing sacks and forced fumbles — but battled inconsistency and injuries that limited his development.
The trade gives Oweh a chance to reset in Los Angeles, where the Chargers’ coaching staff is eager to tap into his athletic upside. A fresh system and environment could be exactly what he needs to unlock his potential as a premier pass rusher.
Ravens Focused on Playoff Push
At 3–2 entering Week 6, the Ravens are squarely in the AFC playoff mix but know they must tighten up defensively to stay competitive. Adding proven talent like Gilman and experienced depth with Gardner-Johnson reflects the team’s commitment to addressing weaknesses before they become costly.
Gilman’s leadership, physicality, and knack for clutch plays could immediately pay dividends in a division defined by close, hard-fought battles. Meanwhile, the Ravens’ willingness to part with a young pass rusher like Oweh underscores their win-now mindset.
As Baltimore looks ahead to the second half of the season, the message is clear — defense wins championships, and the Ravens are intent on fortifying theirs.
