One of the biggest standouts from the Baltimore Ravens' Week 1 preseason win over the Indianapolis Colts was rookie outside linebacker Mike Green. Baltimore's second-round pick generated consistent pressure and contributed to a sack by Adisa Isaac.
There's a lot of upside and potential in Green and his ability. Along with Kyle Van Noy and Odafe Oweh, who are both coming off double-digit sack seasons, Green could help the Ravens' pass rush in his rookie season. What also helps is a Ravens legend talking to Green and giving him some pointers.
Ravens Super Bowl Champion Helping Out Mike Green
Baltimore is known for its pass-rushers on defense, including Peter Boulware, Rob Burnett, and Terrell Suggs. Among these defensive standouts, Michael McCrary brought notable versatility after joining Baltimore from the Seattle Seahawks in 1997. McCrary became a key piece on the 2000 Ravens Super Bowl defense. He was a Pro Bowler and recorded 51 sacks as a Raven, including 14.5 in 1998. His impact continued into the 2000 postseason when he tallied six sacks in four games, including two against New York Giants quarterback Kerry Collins during Baltimore's 34-7 Super Bowl XXXV victory. Thanks to his contributions, McCrary was inducted into the Ravens Ring of Honor.
During practice on Wednesday, one day after Ray Lewis and Michael Phelps paid a visit to Owings Mills, McCrary visited practice and was going through moves with Green, helping the young rookie out as he develops. It was pretty cool to see one of Baltimore's all-time greats pass on their knowledge to the next generation of hopeful pass rushers.
After transferring to Marshall, Green led all of college football with 17 sacks and three forced fumbles in 2024. Though the Ravens' 2025 draft class has largely focused on first-round pick Malaki Starks—who has impressed in training camp and preseason—Green could make a significant impact at a crucial position. He especially has the potential to boost Baltimore's pass rush against top AFC quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes, Joe Burrow, and Josh Allen.
McCrary knew how to pressure quarterbacks, and his knowledge and teachings on Wednesday are sure to help Baltimore's young rookie. Every little thing can help Baltimore in what is sure to be one of the most important seasons in team history. Former players like McCrary and Lewis are playing their part to get the 2025 team ready for the journey ahead.