Ravens Address Edge Rusher Need, Select Mike Green in Second Round of NFL Draft.

The Baltimore Ravens, known for their storied history of defensive dominance, have once again committed to their defensive identity by selecting edge rusher Mike Green in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft. With the 59th overall pick, General Manager Eric DeCosta and Head Coach John Harbaugh aimed directly at one of the most pressing needs on the roster—edge depth and pass-rushing prowess.

In selecting Green, a high-upside prospect from Marshall University, the Ravens have brought in a relentless, explosive edge defender with the traits to become a foundational piece of their defense. The pick was not just about talent—it was about fit, scheme versatility, upside, and long-term planning. And for a franchise that has consistently thrived when building through defense, the move speaks volumes about where Baltimore sees its next phase of pass rush production coming from.

The Edge Rusher Void: A Position in Flux

Coming into the 2025 NFL Draft, the Ravens’ edge rusher situation was full of uncertainty. Veteran Kyle Van Noy, a productive presence in 2024, is near the end of his career. Tyus Bowser’s injury issues have raised long-term concerns, and while Odafe Oweh and David Ojabo both have tantalizing talent, neither has yet become a consistent game-changer.

Baltimore’s defense has historically been at its best with a strong outside linebacker group—think Terrell Suggs, Elvis Dumervil, Matthew Judon, and Za’Darius Smith. The lack of a truly dominant outside presence in recent seasons has led to a dip in sack production and quarterback pressures, especially in critical playoff moments.

Enter Mike Green—a fast-rising prospect with a well-rounded skillset and an ultra-high motor.

Mike Green: The Road Less Traveled

Green’s journey to the NFL was anything but conventional. A former four-star recruit, Green began his collegiate career at the University of Virginia. However, due to internal team conflicts and off-field issues that led to limited playing time, Green transferred to Marshall in 2023. It was a move that reignited his career.

At Marshall, he flourished into a dominant force. Over two seasons with the Thundering Herd, Green tallied 17 sacks, 22.5 tackles for loss, and 3 forced fumbles. He led the nation in sacks during the 2024 college football season, emerging as one of the most feared pass rushers in the country.

At 6’3”, 251 pounds, Green brings prototypical size and power to the edge. His blend of speed, leverage, and violence at the point of attack caught the attention of scouts during the Senior Bowl, where he routinely won one-on-one drills against highly regarded offensive tackles.

Scouting Breakdown: Traits That Translate

Green’s best trait is undoubtedly his burst off the line. His first step is electric, and his ability to bend the edge with ankle flexibility gives him a natural advantage over slower-footed tackles. He possesses an array of pass-rush moves—most notably his cross-chop and spin—that make him a constant threat off either side of the formation.

His athletic background includes wrestling, which has honed his hand placement, balance, and ability to win leverage battles. Green plays with a chip on his shoulder, and that relentless motor has earned him comparisons to players like Haason Reddick and Uchenna Nwosu—hybrid pass rushers who bring speed and finesse to the edge position.

NFL Draft analysts widely projected Green as a late second or early third-round pick, citing his production and upside. But what separated him in the Ravens’ eyes, according to insiders, was his work ethic, coachability, and raw potential in a scheme like Baltimore’s.

Concerns and Developmental Needs

Despite his impressive resume, Green is not without question marks. He’s slightly undersized compared to traditional 4-3 defensive ends, and his 32 1/8” arms place him below the NFL average for edge players. Some scouts worry about his ability to disengage from NFL-caliber offensive tackles in run defense.

His tape also reveals occasional lapses in gap discipline and edge setting. Against the run, he can be too aggressive, sometimes over-pursuing and leaving cutback lanes exposed.

Moreover, Green was rarely asked to drop into coverage at Marshall. In Baltimore’s multiple-look defense, outside linebackers are sometimes tasked with zone coverage responsibilities. This could limit his early-down usage until he improves his awareness and coverage instincts.

Off the field, Green has worked to repair his image following allegations that surfaced during his time at Virginia. He addressed these issues directly during the NFL Combine interviews, reportedly earning respect from several front offices for his honesty and maturity. The Ravens, known for their thorough character vetting, felt confident enough to invest a premium pick in him.

How Green Fits in Baltimore’s Defense

Defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald thrives on creating pressure through disguise and aggression. His system requires edge defenders who can rush from multiple alignments—both standing up and with their hand in the dirt. Green’s experience in both roles at Marshall makes him a versatile fit.

In the short term, Green will likely be rotated in as a pass-rush specialist. Expect to see him in sub-packages where his job will be to pin his ears back and hunt quarterbacks on third down. Long term, the hope is that he will develop into a three-down defender, capable of anchoring against the run and adding complexity to Baltimore’s pressure packages.

If he can refine his run defense and expand his skill set in coverage, Green could be a future Pro Bowl-caliber player. The Ravens have a strong history of developing edge talent, and under the tutelage of position coach Chuck Smith—a former pass rush specialist himself—Green will have the tools and mentorship to thrive.

Reaction Around the League

Draft analysts had mixed reactions to the pick. ESPN’s Todd McShay called Green “a high-upside, high-risk pick,” noting that while his film flashes elite traits, his inconsistency and character questions may have caused some teams to pass.

NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah, however, was bullish on the selection: “This is the kind of edge defender Baltimore knows how to develop. He’s got that twitch, that fire. I wouldn’t be shocked if we’re talking about Mike Green as a breakout star in two years.”

Ravens fans took to social media in support of the move. While some initially hoped for a wide receiver or cornerback at pick 59, many have come to appreciate the value of bolstering the pass rush in a division that features Joe Burrow, Deshaun Watson, and now a young Kenny Pickett-led Steelers offense.

Looking Ahead: Rookie Expectations and Role

Rookies rarely come into Baltimore and start from Day 1, especially on defense. However, Green’s role will likely increase week-to-week depending on his development and the health of the Ravens’ veterans.

The Ravens also play heavy sub-packages, often featuring three or four edge rushers on the field in obvious passing situations. Green could earn an early-season niche as a situational rusher while developing his body and technique for an expanded role.

Baltimore’s schedule includes early matchups against some pass-heavy offenses, so getting pressure on quarterbacks without blitzing will be key. Green’s athletic traits make him an intriguing chess piece, especially if he adapts quickly to NFL speed.

Final Thoughts

By selecting Mike Green with the 59th overall pick, the Ravens addressed a long-standing need at edge rusher while staying true to their identity as a franchise built on defensive toughness. Green is not a finished product, but his ceiling is undeniable. He has the chance to be the next in a long line of Ravens edge rushers who terrorize quarterbacks and make life miserable for AFC North offenses.

With the right development, Green could be one of the steals of the 2025 NFL Draft. And if history is any guide, the Ravens may have just landed their next defensive star.