‘Explosive’ Second-Round Rookie Mike Green Earns Praise From Ravens Coaches, Teammates for Standout Performance in Early Training Camp Sessions

The Baltimore Ravens have a long-standing tradition of developing defensive stars, from Ed Reed and Ray Lewis to Marlon Humphrey and Kyle Hamilton. But with the 2025 NFL season inching closer, it’s a new name generating buzz inside training camp: rookie second-round pick Mike Green.

Described by teammates and coaches alike as “explosive,” Green is already turning heads at Ravens training camp with his quickness, high motor, and football IQ. While rookies are typically eased into the Ravens’ complex defensive schemes, Green has seemingly skipped a few steps in the learning curve. The former Alabama standout is quickly making a case not just for a roster spot—but for significant playing time.

A Standout Start in Owings Mills

Green’s early practices have drawn rave reviews from the Ravens’ defensive staff. Defensive coordinator Zach Orr didn’t mince words when asked about the rookie’s performance.

“He’s explosive, no doubt,” Orr said after Saturday’s padded session. “You feel him when he’s on the field. He’s violent at the point of attack, smart, and already communicating like a veteran. That’s not something you expect from a rookie this early.”

Green has reportedly been dominant during inside run drills and has flashed elite quick-twitch ability during blitz packages. His physicality and ability to shed blockers has earned him first-team reps, despite being in camp for less than two weeks.

Draft Day Value Already Paying Off

Baltimore selected Green with the No. 49 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, a move that was initially met with surprise by some analysts who expected the Ravens to prioritize offensive depth. However, Green was a top-30 visit for the team and someone general manager Eric DeCosta had targeted since the Combine.

DeCosta shared his excitement on draft night, saying, “Mike plays Ravens football—fast, violent, and relentless. He was one of our favorite interviews, and he fits our culture.”

That evaluation now looks prophetic. In just over a week of practice, Green has justified the front office’s faith and has injected new life into Baltimore’s linebacker corps, which is in transition after the departures of veterans Patrick Queen and Malik Harrison.

Praise From Veteran Leaders

Ravens defensive veterans are already taking note of Green’s demeanor and work ethic. Star safety Kyle Hamilton, considered the quarterback of the secondary, said Green is ahead of where most rookies are at this point in camp.

“You can tell he’s been studying. He asks the right questions, picks things up fast, and he’s already showing he can be disruptive,” Hamilton said. “He reminds me of when Roquan [Smith] first got here—just a guy who instantly commands attention.”

Linebacker Roquan Smith, the leader of the unit, echoed the sentiment.

“He’s got that dog in him,” Smith said. “Not just physically, but mentally. He’s not scared of the moment, and that’s big around here.”

Making the Most of Reps

With the Ravens being cautious with some of their veterans early in camp, Green has taken full advantage of increased reps. Whether it’s working with the ones, twos, or on special teams, he’s been everywhere.

“Some guys want to be good,” said linebackers coach Anthony Weaver. “Mike wants to be great. He stays after meetings, watches extra film, and hits the field with purpose. That’s a rare quality for a 22-year-old.”

Green has already recorded multiple “would-be” sacks during live 11-on-11 scrimmages and was credited with a forced fumble during Thursday’s full-contact period.

Nick Saban Knew He Was Special

At Alabama, Green became a household name in SEC circles for his violent tackling style and consistent presence around the ball. In his final year in Tuscaloosa, he led the team with 118 total tackles and 16.5 tackles for loss.

Former Crimson Tide head coach Nick Saban, who retired earlier this year, once called Green “one of the smartest players I’ve coached.”

“He sees the field like a coach,” Saban said. “What makes Mike dangerous is he not only reacts quickly—he anticipates what’s coming. That makes him a nightmare for quarterbacks and offensive coordinators.”

Fans, Analysts Take Notice

Baltimore fans are already buzzing about Green’s potential. Social media posts highlighting his plays in camp have gone viral, with fans excited about his versatility and physicality.

Ravens insider Jeff Zrebiec of The Athletic recently wrote: “It’s early, but Mike Green looks like a Day 1 contributor. He’s not just holding his own—he’s excelling.”

NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah tweeted, “I had Green as a first-round grade. Ravens getting him at 49 could be the steal of the draft.”

Fit With Baltimore’s Scheme

Green’s natural instincts, versatility, and aggression make him a perfect fit for Baltimore’s aggressive defensive system. He has been used in multiple ways—stack linebacker, edge rusher, even dropping into coverage against tight ends. That hybrid capability aligns with the Ravens’ trend of fielding positionless defenders who can do it all.

Zach Orr emphasized Green’s flexibility: “He can be a true inside linebacker or an edge in certain sub-packages. We’re going to have fun moving him around.”

What’s Next: Preseason Outlook

With the Ravens’ first preseason game just around the corner, all eyes will be on Green. Coaches expect him to get significant snaps, particularly in the first and third quarters when the team evaluates depth and versatility.

It’s also a prime opportunity for Green to stake his claim on a starting role. While nothing is guaranteed, he appears to be in direct competition with second-year linebacker Trenton Simpson for snaps alongside Roquan Smith.

“We want to see how he translates everything from practice to game speed,” Orr said. “So far, he’s passed every test.”

A New Star in the Making?

While it’s far too early to anoint any rookie a future Pro Bowler, Mike Green’s early performance has put him firmly in the spotlight. His relentless energy, intelligence, and ability to deliver punishing hits have quickly endeared him to Baltimore’s coaches, players, and fans.

“He’s the kind of guy who gives your whole defense an edge,” Hamilton said. “You look at him and say, ‘Yeah, that’s a Raven.’”

For now, Green is focused on continuing to grow, avoiding mistakes, and staying humble.

“Nothing’s handed to you here,” he said in his first media availability. “I’ve got a lot to learn, but I’m ready to work. That’s all I know how to do.”

And if his early days are any indication, Mike Green is well on his way to becoming the Ravens’ next defensive enforcer.