Ravens’ Season Takes a Hit with Rookie Teddye Buchanan’s ACL Injury
The Baltimore Ravens have been dealt a significant blow with the news that fourth-round rookie Teddye Buchanan will miss the remainder of the season due to a torn ACL. This injury was confirmed following the Ravens’ decisive victory over the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 15. As the team navigates this setback, a familiar yet new face will step into the starting inside linebacker role alongside All-Pro veteran Roquan Smith.
Emotional Impact on the Team
The loss of Buchanan is felt deeply within the Ravens locker room. Roquan Smith expressed his heartfelt sentiments postgame, emphasizing the camaraderie and connection he shared with Buchanan. “It sucks anytime you see your guy go down, somebody you go to war with every day and truly just a good dude,” Smith reflected. The emotional weight of seeing a teammate struggle is palpable. Smith added, “It’s giving me chills thinking about it, and just knowing what [Buchanan] stands for, knowing all that he’s gone through. So, when you just see that, it just sucks.” He acknowledged the harsh realities of professional football, stating, “It’s an unforgiving business, and we know that. We signed up for that, and it just sucks, but I know it’s a minor setback for him.”
A Shift in Linebacker Dynamics
In response to Buchanan’s injury, the Ravens will turn to Trenton Simpson, a third-round pick from the 2023 NFL Draft. Selected at No. 86 overall from Clemson, Simpson was envisioned as a future cornerstone for the linebacker corps. With the team declining the fifth-year option on 2020 first-round pick Patrick Queen, the expectation was that Simpson would eventually fill that critical role.
During his rookie season, Simpson primarily contributed on special teams. However, he made an impression during the regular season finale when he stepped in for several starters, including Queen—who had earned Second Team All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors. That game showcased Simpson’s potential, leaving many within the organization optimistic about his future. Heading into the 2024 season, Simpson secured the top WILL linebacker position for the first 13 weeks. Unfortunately, he faced a setback after the team’s Week 14 bye, leading to his benching.
Looking Ahead
As the Ravens adjust their lineup in the wake of Buchanan’s injury, the focus will shift to how Simpson adapts to the increased responsibility. The team will need to rally around him, drawing upon their collective resilience to navigate this challenging chapter of the season. With Smith’s leadership and experience by his side, Simpson has the opportunity to step up and prove himself as a crucial part of the Ravens’ defense.
