Starks and Green Are Poised to Immediately Impact Ravens’ Defense

As the days wind down until the season opener, the Ravens will lean on two of their top rookies for a pivotal Week 1 matchup: safety Malaki Starks and edge rusher Mike Green.

Baltimore swept through the preseason at 3-0, with both rookies playing key roles. Their stat lines weren’t eye-popping, but the tape showed impact that went well beyond the box score.

Those skill sets will be tested immediately in Orchard Park against the Buffalo Bills.

Starks’ Instant Fit

Starks flashed range and assignment flexibility throughout the preseason. He aligned high as a true center fielder, rolled late into robber zones, pressed tight ends from the slot, and even walked out wide when formations dictated it. He triggered quickly on down-and-distance, forced throws underneath, and tackled in space to set up manageable third downs.

That versatility will matter against a high-powered Bills offense.

Josh Allen stresses defenses with second-reaction bombs and seam shots. Starks’ ability to rotate from a split-safety shell, carry verticals, and stop crossers helps limit explosive plays. His reps against athletic tight ends also translate against Dalton Kincaid and Dawson Knox.

Add steady run fits and pursuit angles, and he’s a clean answer versus James Cook on perimeter concepts.

And this isn’t just a one-week fix.

An opening stretch against the Browns, Lions, Chiefs, Texans, and Rams, and midyear showdowns with the Dolphins and Bengals, will test Baltimore’s ability to disguise coverages and stay in sync. Starks already showed he can handle multiple roles within a series, which lets Baltimore toggle looks without subbing.