DE Efe Obada and Panthers Agree to a One-Year Extension

Efe Obada. Photo by Dave Shopland/BPI/REX/Shutterstock

British defensive end Efe Obada did enough in the past couple of seasons to make Carolina Panthers want to keep him around. Panthers announced on Monday that they have signed Obada, who was set to become an exclusive rights free agent, to a one-year extension.

Obada took part in all of Carolina’s 16 games, making 24 tackles (two for loss), four QB hits and one pass defended.

“It’s still an uphill battle,” said Obada after inking the deal. “I don’t think I’ve established myself, and with all the changes in the organization, there are going to be fresh eyes in the coaching department with a new system and new philosophies. It’s going to be like a rookie year for me, kind of a ‘prove it’ year. At the same time, it’s also an opportunity. It’s about my work ethic and just improving.”

Efe Obada arrived at the NFL in 2017 as part of the league’s International Player Pathway, which made it easier for the teams to sign international players. After not seeing any action in his first year with the organization, Obada debuted in 2018 and left a strong impression. Although he only had eight tackles, he contributed with 2.0 sacks, one interception and two passes defended.