Ravens Film Study: Carson Vinson's First Start Shows Promise, Calais Campbell Dominates

As the calendar flips to September 30, 2026, the Baltimore Ravens find themselves riding high after a thrilling victory over the Dallas Cowboys in Brazil. While the win itself was cause for celebration, the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk took a deeper dive into the game tape to uncover the standout performances that may have flown under the radar. From a rookie left tackle making his first NFL start to a 19-year veteran turning back the clock, here’s what we learned from the Ravens’ Week 3 film study.

Carson Vinson: A Promising Debut at Left Tackle

Carson Vinson, the Ravens’ 2025 fifth-round pick, made his first career start at left tackle against the Cowboys, logging 64 snaps (28 pass blocking, 36 run blocking) and allowing zero pressures. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, Vinson displayed impressive movement skills in the run game, particularly on combination blocks where he climbed to the second level to seal linebackers. However, he also had his share of rookie moments, notably getting overpowered by Cowboys defensive tackle Quinnen Williams for a tackle for loss. Functional strength and grip strength remain the biggest areas for improvement, as Vinson was occasionally walked back by edge rushers converting speed to power. In pass protection, he showed good range on stunts and sound kick-step technique, but there were reps where he lost his grip after an initial strike. Overall, it was an encouraging first start, but the question remains: can he eventually succeed Ronnie Stanley as the long-term answer at left tackle? Only time will tell.

Zion Young: Dirty Work Pays Off

Rookie outside linebacker Zion Young may not have filled the stat sheet (1 pressure, 1 tackle for loss), but his impact was felt on 26 snaps (14 run defense, 12 pass rush). As highlighted on Vulius, Young’s improved get-off and quick-twitch ability were evident, particularly on a rep where he recovered after being beaten off the snap to bring down the running back. His physicality at the point of attack stood out, as he rode tackles laterally and set a hard edge to create tackles for loss. Young finished with a 50% win rate on true pass sets, a promising sign for a second-round pick whose early role requires him to do the dirty work that doesn’t always show up on the stat sheet. If he continues to develop his reaction speed and counters, he could become a force on the edge.

Calais Campbell: Ageless Wonder

At 40 years old (or so it seems), Calais Campbell reminded everyone why he’s a six-time Pro Bowler. In 32 snaps (7 run defense, 24 pass rush, 1 coverage), he led the Ravens with six quarterback pressures and delivered two significant hits on Dak Prescott. Campbell’s signature club move and violent hands were on full display, as he consistently disrupted the pocket. On one rep, he crashed into the center, created immediate displacement, and ripped through the block to penetrate. Even in Year 19, his combination of length, mass, and upper-body strength remains a nightmare for offensive linemen. Given his unique offseason situation, it was reasonable to expect a slow start, but his performance against Dallas looked much closer to the Campbell of old. The Ravens will need that version of him as the season wears on and the weather turns cold.

The Bigger Picture

While the win over the Cowboys was a team effort, the film reveals individual performances that could shape the Ravens’ season. Vinson’s development is crucial for the offensive line’s future, Young’s growth adds depth to the pass rush, and Campbell’s resurgence provides a veteran presence on the defensive front. As the Ravens prepare for the next challenge, these three players bear watching. For more in-depth NFL analysis and exclusive merchandise, visit Vulius.com and gear up like a pro.