Kyle Van Noy, at 32 years old, refrains from labeling himself as “old” and instead prefers the term “experienced.” He has made a significant impact as a Raven, securing three sacks in his initial four games, and he believes he’s just getting started.
Van Noy expressed this sentiment on “The Lounge” podcast, stating, “Honestly, I anticipated this. It was a matter of finding the right opportunity. I feel like I’m currently in my prime. Despite the NFL trending toward younger players, I believe I’m hitting my stride as both a pass rusher and overall player.”
Van Noy is somewhat perturbed by the surprise expressed by those who didn’t expect his strong start in Baltimore. Going back to the previous season, he has achieved eight sacks in his last nine games, including a streak of five consecutive games with a sack for the Los Angeles Chargers.
He stated, “I’ve always felt undervalued and underestimated. When teams acquire me, it’s a shock, as if they didn’t realize I could do this. I’m like, ‘Well, were you watching game film?’ It’s about being the player I am and carrying that chip on my shoulder.”
This chip on his shoulder has become an integral part of Van Noy’s identity. The Detroit Lions drafted him early in the second round in 2014, but he saw limited playing time during his initial two seasons, with zero starts, 16 tackles, and just one sack.
According to Van Noy, his position coach in Detroit acknowledged his talent but couldn’t find the right role for him. In his third season, he was traded to the New England Patriots by the new General Manager Bob Quinn.
Van Noy won a Super Bowl in his first partial season with the Patriots and had a standout season in 2017, contributing significantly to another Super Bowl victory. He became a versatile and vital player in Bill Belichick’s defense for four seasons.
When he became a free agent before the 2020 season, Van Noy signed a lucrative four-year, $51 million contract with the Miami Dolphins. However, even after an impressive season, the Dolphins unexpectedly released him after just one year.
Van Noy then had stints with New England, Los Angeles, and now Baltimore, marking his fourth team in as many years.
Van Noy initially visited the Ravens in July but didn’t sign due to disagreements regarding money and his role. During this time, he maintained his fitness by setting up cone drills in his backyard and watched football games from his couch.
The Las Vegas Raiders expressed interest in him, but when the Ravens needed pass rushers due to injuries, they reached out again, and Van Noy signed with the Ravens on Sept. 27. He quickly made his presence felt in a victory against Cleveland.
Despite a career marked by ups and downs, Van Noy remains determined to prove himself as a top-tier player, even in a league dominated by younger athletes. He has consistently recorded at least five sacks in each of the past four seasons and is on track for a career-high in sacks this season.
Kyle Van Noy shows off the power (sack) and quickness (tackle for no gain). pic.twitter.com/Ur8moZJeDg
— Ryan Mink (@ryanmink) October 24, 2023
Head Coach John Harbaugh praised Van Noy’s recent performance, noting his strength at the end of the last game.
Van Noy credits Defensive Coordinator Mike Macdonald for positioning him and fellow veteran outside linebacker Jadeveon Clowney to succeed, allowing them to play to their strengths. Van Noy’s ability to focus on pass rushing, rather than juggling various roles, has been key to his success.
He summed it up, saying, “For a long time, I played multiple positions, filling in wherever there was an injury. I performed at a high level, but I was never able to excel in one specific area. Now that I can focus on pass rushing, I can excel at it.”
Van Noy and Clowney both share a chip on their shoulders and a desire to make game-changing plays, a motivation that has been a driving force throughout their careers.
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