How Did the Ravens Steal Mike Green? Here’s Why He’s Their Most Dominant Rookie So Far

Baltimore Ravens rookie edge rusher Mike Green has been making a lot of noise this preseason, and it likely will not stop here. The Ravens took a risky chance but may have the 2025-2026 rookie defensive player of the year on their side.

Green’s pre-draft process was a bit different from most top prospects this year. Much of the discussion focused not on his dominant play during his final year at Marshall, but on allegations that led him to transfer from Virginia for that season. Because the allegations were a trending topic, his draft stock fell.

Green, who was projected as a top-20 pick, was ultimately selected by the Ravens in the second round with the 59th overall pick. Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta said the team reviewed both Green’s talent and the situation as thoroughly as possible before making their decision.

That decision could be a key reason why the Ravens have a chance at winning the Super Bowl this season. Green has been a trending topic in Baltimore the past few weeks for good reason: his dominant play on the field. For strict stat sheet readers, the numbers may not impress; he has only three tackles and no sacks, but for game watchers, fans, and true football lovers, it is clear that Green has been giving every blocker trouble.

His speed, explosiveness, strength, and hand techniques have been too much for any offensive lineman, tight end, or fullback. Because of his pressure, the Ravens’ defense has been creating chaos in the backfield.

In just two preseason games, Green has recorded five quarterback pressures, a 16.7 percent pressure rate, a 30.0 percent pass-rush win rate, and an 86.4 pass-rush grade, all on 30 pass-rushing snaps.

“Mike Green’s consistently winning the pass rush battle and making an impact in the run game. He’s got versatility to drop in coverage, and my god, does he ever look good,” said Cole Jackson, an analyst who covers the Ravens, in his recent game breakdown.

Jackson also praised Green’s fundamental mechanics, saying Green’s first step creates space to the outside. He added that Green takes the correct steps to square up his opponent, putting the blocker in a position that makes it easier for Green to push their hands away.

With Nnamdi Madubuike, Kyle Van Noy, David Ojabo, and Odafe Oweh, the Ravens’ pass-rushing unit is looking scary with Week 1 coming up.