Ravens secondary could benefit greatly from rebuilt pass rush

Mike Mickens teaches Baltimore‘s defensive backs how to cover receivers, recognize routes and attack the football. He also understands that their best assistance may come from players working far ahead of them.

“I always tell our DBs the D-line is our best friend,” Mickens said on The Ravens Lounge.

“I always tell our DBs the D-line is our best friend,” Mickens said on The Ravens Lounge.

Baltimore strengthened that relationship by adding Trey Hendrickson to a pass-rush group that includes Mike Green, Tavius Robinson and rookie Zion Young. Calais Campbell, Nnamdi Madubuike and Travis Jones provide size and disruption along the interior. Consistent pressure shortens the amount of time a cornerback must remain in coverage. It can also force quarterbacks to release the football before routes develop or throw without establishing their preferred platform.

Mickens expects those hurried decisions to create opportunities for Kyle Hamilton, Nate Wiggins, Malaki Starks and the rest of Baltimore’s secondary.

“When we get after the quarterback and force some errant throws out there, our guys are in the right position and are going to make some plays,” Mickens said.

“When we get after the quarterback and force some errant throws out there, our guys are in the right position and are going to make some plays,” Mickens said.

Hendrickson offers the proven production Baltimore lacked during portions of last season. His ability to win without blitzing could allow Minter to keep additional defenders in coverage while still affecting the quarterback.

That connection works in both directions. Tight coverage can force the quarterback to hold the football, giving Hendrickson and Baltimore’s other rushers additional time to finish. The Ravens need both units operating together. A talented secondary can eventually break down if the quarterback faces no pressure, while even an elite pass rush can be neutralized when receivers are immediately available. Mickens’ “Deny My Man” philosophy demands aggressive coverage without surrendering explosive plays. A disruptive front makes that balance easier to achieve.

Baltimore invested in Hendrickson to handle pressure and close out games. Mickens sees another benefit: Every hurried throw provides his defensive backs with another chance to turn coverage into possession.