Baltimore Ravens outside linebacker Kyle Van Noy had to leave his team’s season-opening game against the Kansas City Chiefs with an eye injury. His return is questionable.
The return of LB Kyle Van Noy (eye) is questionable.
— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) 6 September 2024
Van Noy, 33, is one of the veteran leaders on the Ravens’ defense. He joined the Ravens early in the season last year and recorded a career-high nine sacks, third most on the team. The two-time Super Bowl winner often played more of an off-ball role, but being able to focus exclusively on pass rushing allowed him to shine last season.
“I haven’t played the ball like that in a long time,” Van Noy told reporters on Aug. 12. “Out of my 11 years – this is the third of 11 years now – I haven’t had to worry about playing green dot as a middle linebacker, and I still tell people what to do every now and then. But it’s not as much communication, (and I) just focus on my job and the chance to win a one-on-one and just get better and work on it.”
After a great season, Van Noy re-signed with the Ravens for a two-year, $12 million contract. Baltimore’s pass rush is largely young and untested, so having Van Noy as a mentor is a blessing.
Before leaving Thursday’s game, Van Noy had a tackle and a quarterback hit on Patrick Mahomes. He was able to walk off the field under his own power, which gives hope for his comeback.
Baltimore trailed Kansas City 20-10 at the time of the injury midway through the third quarter. The Chiefs scored a touchdown in both the first and second half, while the Ravens scored the game’s first touchdown.
This story will continue to develop. Ravens OnSI will continue to provide updates on Van Noy’s injury as more information becomes available.
Don’t forget to bookmark Baltimore Ravens on SI for the latest news, exclusive interviews, film analysis and more!
