Mike Green has spent Ravens training camp studying an accomplished pass rusher. Saturday night brings his first opportunity to show what he learned from Trey Hendrickson. The Ravens will host the Philadelphia Eagles in their preseason opener. Baltimore’s established starters will sit, but Green should receive work as he pursues a larger role in Jesse Minter’s defense.
Green finished his rookie season with 41 tackles, 3.5 sacks and a fumble recovery. Those numbers offered encouragement without establishing him as the consistent pressure producer Baltimore needs. Hendrickson’s arrival provided Green with a blueprint. The veteran has helped him understand preparation, recovery, and the importance of building a pass-rush plan rather than relying on athleticism.
Philadelphia’s reserve tackles should offer a test. Green must threaten the edge, force blockers to overset and show he has developed a counter when his initial move is stopped. The Ravens will evaluate more than sacks. Green can affect the offense by collapsing the pocket, forcing quarterbacks to move and creating opportunities for teammates. Maintaining rush-lane discipline against mobile rookie Cole Payton will matter. Green must remain dependable against the run. Philadelphia could feature Tank Bigsby, Will Shipley and Dameon Pierce, forcing Baltimore’s edges to maintain leverage and finish tackles.
One preseason performance won’t define Green’s second season. It can provide evidence that his offseason work is translating into results.
Hendrickson was signed to improve Baltimore’s pass rush immediately. If his influence accelerates Green’s development, the Ravens could receive value from the move beyond one player’s sack total.
This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Mike Green gets first chance to show Year 2 development in preseason