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Ravens' Jesse Minter is masterful, but Trey Hendrickson is a machine
TL;DR
Jesse Minter's defensive strategies have significantly improved the Ravens, while Trey Hendrickson's return from injury adds strength to their lineup. The combination of Minter's tactics and Hendrickson's skills could create a formidable defense for the 2026 season.
Key points
- Jesse Minter's strategies improved Ravens' defensive rankings.
- Trey Hendrickson returns from injury to strengthen the defense.
- Minter's 3-4 formation could enhance defensive performance.
- Hendrickson averaged 17.5 sacks per season before injury.
- Ravens aim for a powerful defensive front in 2026.
Baltimore RavensLos Angeles ChargersCincinnati BengalsIndianapolis Colts
The defensive mastermind of Baltimore Ravens head coach Jesse Minter is worth mentioning. Minter's excellence alone helped the Los Angeles Chargers rank No. 10 in opponent rush yards allowed per game last season. The Chargers also ranked No. 10 in the NFL in total sacks with 45 in 2025, despite there being few All-Pro names on the Chargers roster last year. Therefore, Minter knows that having a veteran linebacker like Trey Hendrickson a part of his defensive roster is a blessing, and fans should expect Minter to dial up some impressive formations to wreak havoc on opponents in 2026.
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - SEPTEMBER 21: Trey Hendrickson #91 of the Cincinnati Bengals looks on before the game against the Minnesota Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium on September 21, 2025 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Hendrickson played only seven games for the Cincinnati Bengals in 2025, sidelined by a core-muscle injury that required surgery last December. Having healed plentifully, Hendrickson won't operate as the sole primary force on the Ravens defensive line as he did with the Bengals. Instead, Hendrickson will be accompanied by other powerhouse pass rushers who will make it even more difficult for opposing offensive linemen to account for his innate skill set. Hendrickson peaked under current Indianapolis Colts defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, averaging 17.5 sacks per season in both 2024 and 2025 before Anarumo departed from the Bengals. Now, Hendrickson will be a chess piece inside Minter's methodical strategy, and won't have to rely solely on willpower to shed blockers and disrupt plays.
Q&A
How did Jesse Minter improve the Ravens' defense?
Jesse Minter's strategies helped the Ravens rank highly in opponent rush yards allowed and total sacks, showcasing his defensive expertise.
What impact will Trey Hendrickson have on the Ravens' defense in 2026?
Trey Hendrickson's return from injury, combined with Minter's strategic formations, is expected to enhance the Ravens' defensive strength significantly.
What defensive formation will Jesse Minter use with the Ravens?
Jesse Minter plans to utilize a modular 3-4 formation, which he has successfully implemented before, to maximize the effectiveness of the Ravens' defensive roster.
