The Baltimore Ravens hope to get their season back on track after an abysmal 1-4 start against the Los Angeles Rams this Sunday. To do this, Baltimore's defense must step up. Through five games, the Ravens have given up 408.8 yards per game (31st in the league) and 35.4 points per game (32nd in the league).
One player who has played solidly yet is still awaiting a true breakout game is rookie edge rusher Mike Green. With Rams tackle Rob Havenstein listed as doubtful, the Ravens have an opportunity to generate more pressure than they have in past weeks. This will be pivotal for the Ravens' defense to right the ship. Crucially, generating pressure and sacks was considered Green's specialty when he was drafted.
Here's the final injury report of the week for the Rams and Ravens.
— Sarah Barshop (@sarahbarshop) October 10, 2025
Ravens QB Lamar Jackson (hamstring) has been ruled OUT for Sunday. pic.twitter.com/bc1PsYljjt
Furthermore, with Roquan Smith still sidelined and Odafe Oweh being traded earlier this week, Green should see an increased role. If Green can take advantage of this opportunity, it could tilt the game in favor of Baltimore.
The writing is on the wall for Green to have a statement game
The Marshall product has recorded 14 combined tackles, six pressures, and has posted a 41.2 PFF grade. This isn't great for a second-round pick, especially one that was billed as a clear first-round talent. Nevertheless, overreacting after five games of Green's career is foolish, and going up against an injured Rams o-line, he has the perfect chance to have a statement game.
Green has also shown solid flashes, including against the Kansas City Chiefs when he recorded five combined tackles, including one tackle for loss. The Ravens seem to be leaning on Green more as he started his first game last week. Green has never been on the field for more than 76.9 percent of the snaps, but that feels likely to change moving forward.
Again, Oweh being traded and Smith being injured open up a clear opportunity for Green. It's also fair to believe that the Ravens' belief in Green made them feel comfortable trading Oweh.
Green and Kyle Van Noy will be responsible for holding down the outside linebacker spots, which will be essential for the Ravens to generate pressure. For a Ravens team that has recorded just six sacks all season, this will be a key role.
While Green hasn't shown it much so far, he was an elite pass rusher in college. Notably, Green's 17 sacks led the FBS last season. On Sunday, Green must generate pressure on Rams' quarterback Matthew Stafford and contain Kyren Williams in the run game.
Ultimately, the Ravens' defense undoubtedly needs a spark, and Green checks a lot of boxes to provide that this week.