The Ravens have signed Rookie Edge Rusher Mike Green to his 4-year rookie contract, per Ian Rapoport
In what could be an exciting development for the future of the defense, the Baltimore Ravens have officially signed rookie edge rusher Mike Green to a four-year rookie contract, according to NFL insider Ian Rapoport. Green, a highly regarded prospect from the 2025 NFL Draft, was one of the most talked-about players heading into the draft, and his addition to the Ravens’ defense brings both energy and potential to a unit already known for its physicality and relentless pursuit of the quarterback.
For the Ravens, a team with a rich history of strong defensive play, securing a young talent like Green could pay significant dividends in the years to come. The team has long prided itself on developing standout defensive players—many of whom have gone on to become household names. With the signing of Green, the organization is looking to build on that legacy by adding another dynamic piece to its defensive front.
Before diving into what this means for the Ravens’ defense, it’s important to take a closer look at Mike Green’s background and what made him such a coveted prospect in this year’s draft. The 6’4″, 250-pound edge rusher spent his college years at Eastern Kentucky University, where he quickly became known as one of the most disruptive forces in the FCS.
Green’s college career was nothing short of stellar, as he posted impressive numbers year after year, including a standout senior season. During that time, Green amassed a total of 15 sacks and 28 tackles for loss, while also forcing several turnovers. His ability to pressure the quarterback, combined with his high motor and athleticism, made him a standout at the position. As a result, he received numerous accolades, including a first-team All-American selection, further solidifying his status as one of the top defensive prospects in the draft.
What made Green even more attractive to NFL scouts was his versatility. While his primary position is edge rusher, he has the physical tools to drop into coverage if necessary. His speed and agility allow him to cover ground quickly, and his strength enables him to hold up against blockers in the run game as well. This multi-dimensional skill set is something the Ravens’ coaching staff likely values as they look to incorporate him into their defense.
The Baltimore Ravens are widely regarded as one of the most successful and defensive-minded organizations in the NFL. Historically, the team has built its identity around a ferocious defense—a tradition that dates back to the early 2000s, with the likes of Ray Lewis, Ed Reed, and Terrell Suggs leading the way. This culture of defensive excellence is something that has remained central to the team’s philosophy over the years.
In recent seasons, the Ravens’ defense has continued to be a top-tier unit, regularly ranking among the league’s best in terms of points allowed and sacks. The addition of Green, who fits the mold of the Ravens’ typical defensive draft picks, is a clear signal that the team is once again focused on bolstering its defense for the long term.
For Green, landing with the Ravens is a perfect fit. The team has a history of developing young players, particularly on the defensive side of the ball, and Green will have the opportunity to learn from some of the best in the business. Notably, the Ravens already have a few established veterans in the edge rusher and defensive line positions, such as Odafe Oweh and Justin Madubuike, who will be excellent mentors for a young player like Green. Additionally, the Ravens’ defensive scheme, often built around an aggressive pass rush and multiple defensive looks, should provide Green with ample opportunities to show off his skills early in his career.
The signing of Mike Green addresses an area of need for the Ravens—adding depth and explosiveness to the edge rusher position. Although Baltimore has had standout performers in recent years, the team has been inconsistent at getting to the quarterback at times, particularly in the postseason. Green’s addition is a step toward remedying that inconsistency and solidifying an already dangerous front seven.
The first thing that stands out about Green’s game is his ability to rush the passer. His explosion off the line of scrimmage is one of his greatest strengths, and he’s proven time and time again that he can wreak havoc in opposing backfields. Green’s initial burst is something that jumps off the tape, and he’s known for getting into the pocket quickly, often forcing the quarterback to make rushed decisions.
The Ravens have always valued players who can generate pressure from the edge, and Green’s speed and agility give him a legitimate chance to thrive in their defense. Whether it’s coming around the edge or working his way through offensive linemen, Green has the tools to be a game-changer in this area. His ability to create consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks will only make the job easier for his fellow defensive linemen and linebackers, allowing them to also get in on the action.
As mentioned earlier, Mike Green’s versatility is another key trait that makes him so appealing to the Ravens. Although his primary role will likely be as an edge rusher, his ability to drop into coverage, rush from a stand-up position, or even play off the ball gives the Ravens coaching staff more flexibility in how they deploy him. This type of position flexibility will allow Green to be used in a variety of situations, depending on the opponent and game circumstances.
In the Ravens’ defensive scheme, which often uses multiple fronts and coverage looks, having a player like Green who can line up in different positions provides a great advantage. Whether it’s coming from the linebacker position in a blitz, or lining up on the line of scrimmage as a traditional pass rusher, Green’s ability to adapt will allow the Ravens to keep offenses guessing
Another area where Green can make an impact is in the run defense. While his reputation as a pass rusher precedes him, he is also a strong edge-setter who can hold the point of attack when the offense tries to run outside. His strength and ability to disengage from blockers will allow him to play a significant role in the Ravens’ run defense, which has been historically stout under defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald.
Green’s combination of size, strength, and awareness makes him a valuable asset in both the pass rush and run-stopping game, offering a balanced skill set that will allow him to stay on the field in a variety of situations.
With the signing of Mike Green to a four-year rookie contract, the Ravens have secured a promising talent who could potentially become a cornerstone of their defense for years to come. Green will likely have a chance to make an immediate impact, both as a rotational player and as someone who can contribute in key pass-rushing situations.
The Ravens are known for their ability to develop young players, particularly on the defensive side of the ball, and Green will have the opportunity to learn from some of the best coaches and players in the league. The organization’s culture of defensive excellence should provide him with the right environment to grow and reach his full potential.
From a long-term perspective, this signing could have significant implications for the future of the Ravens’ defense. With Green, Oweh, and others forming a potentially dominant defensive front, the Ravens are setting themselves up for sustained success on that side of the ball. In a league where having an elite pass rush is more important than ever, the Ravens could soon find themselves with one of the most formidable front sevens in the league.
The commitment to developing and integrating young talent like Mike Green into the Ravens’ defensive plans speaks volumes about the team’s vision for the future. With the franchise’s history of defensive dominance, this signing further underscores the fact that Baltimore is always looking to get better, no matter how strong their defense already is.
The signing of Mike Green to a four-year contract is not just an exciting moment for the rookie rusher, but for the entire Ravens franchise. With his impressive physical tools, high motor, and versatility, Green is poised to make an immediate impact and contribute to a defensive unit that prides itself on being one of the best in the NFL. As the Ravens continue to build for the future, Green will be a key part of their efforts to continue dominating on defense.
