Signing Trey Hendrickson gives the Baltimore Ravens a high-end solution to their biggest problem last year: a poor pass rush. Hendrickson is a sack machine, recording 17.5 sacks in both of his last fully healthy seasons.
While he's an absolute force as a pass-rusher, it's fair to have concerns about his age and note that he isn't an elite run-stopper. As such, some haven't been keen on the Ravens signing Hendrickson to a four-year $112 million contract.Â
I'm a big supporter of the Ravens signing Hendrickson, but this is certainly worth noting. Thankfully, in training camp, Hendrickson is standing out as a leader. Defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver discussed how Hendrickson is a blueprint for the Ravens' young players.
"Every day Trey's out here, he provides the map. So if I'm a young guy, I'm trying to get in that toolbox, see what else I can use, see what he's seeing. Talking to him all the time, get little tidbits, see what I can apply to my game. There's a lot about him that reminds me of J.J. Watt. They're different from a playstyle standpoint, just in terms of demeanor on the field," Weaver said.
Trey Hendrickson can uplift the Baltimore Ravens' defense in multiple ways
Weaver comparing Hendrickson to Watt is, of course, the ultimate compliment. It's also clear from this quote that Weaver views Hendrickson as a tone-setter for the whole defense and a role model for the team's young players.
Hendrickson's ability to wreak havoc as a pass-rusher is the number one reason for his hefty contract. And despite his age, he remains elite at this vital skill. Leadership is another way Hendrickson can uplift the Ravens, though. This could be especially impactful given the team's slew of young talent on the front seven.Â
Mike Green and Zion Young are two already talented young players on the front seven who can learn a lot from Hendrickson. Green could particularly benefit from Hendrickson since he mainly thrives as a disruptive pass-rusher. Everyone can truly learn from Hendrickson, though; he's one of the most proven pass-rushers in the league.
In addition to learning from Hendrickson, his gravity will help open up more opportunities for others. By all accounts, his elite pass-rushing and leadership will benefit the Ravens.Â
Hendrickson can also help set the tone as a leader and ferocious player. Kyle Hamilton and Roquan Smith are two other players who have this contagious level of energy. Still, the Ravens clearly needed an energy boost after last season, and Hendrickson can help provide just that.Â
Weaver's Watt comparison shows that Hendrickson's energy could be a true game-changer for the Ravens.Â
After a disappointing 2025 season, the Ravens defense is set to surge, and Hendrickson is one of the main reasons why. His elite pass rushing solves a key issue, and he can make everyone on the team better both on and off the field.
Amid all the advantages Hendrickson brings to the team as a pass rusher, his intangibles can't be overlooked, and the Ravens are quickly seeing the impact of his traits.
Add us as a preferred source on Google