Efe Obada Set for 7th NFL Season After Injury and Surgery

Efe Obada determined to continue his NFL career “till the wheels fall off,” faced a major setback last November while playing for the Washington Commanders. During a game, he suffered a horrific injury after a collision with a teammate which left his right leg pointing in an unnatural direction. Doctors diagnosed Obada with multiple fractures in his lower leg and he underwent emergency surgery that evening.

He initially feared for his career but received encouragement from two-time Super Bowl champion Osi Umenyiora, who shared his own recovery experiences and offered support. Although Obada was 32 and out of contract at the season’s end, new Commanders coach Dan Quinn, a former mentor, signed him to a one-year deal. This opportunity allows Obada to prepare for his seventh NFL season, surpassing the league’s average career length of 3.3 years.

He remains grateful for this chance, especially since the team signed him while he was still rehabbing from his injury. Obada’s journey is remarkable. After abandonment in London and time in foster care, he began playing amateur football with the London Warriors before making his way to the NFL. He has played 72 games and recorded notable sacks against Tom Brady and Aaron Rodgers.

This season, he will share a locker room with Jayden Daniels, Washington’s promising new quarterback and veteran Marcus Mariota. The Commanders are undergoing a transition, having traded key defensive players and adding new talent such as linebacker Bobby Wagner, running back Austin Ekeler and tight end Zach Ertz.  Efe Obada is excited about the team’s potential and aims to make a lasting impact, hoping for a Super Bowl appearance alongside the revamped roster.