Ravens Rookie LB Teddye Buchanan Out for Season With Torn ACL, Forcing Major Defensive Shake-Up

Key Points

• Rookie linebacker Teddye Buchanan will miss the rest of the season after suffering a torn ACL in Week 15.
• Buchanan’s injury occurred during the Ravens’ shutout win over the Cincinnati Bengals.
• Trenton Simpson will step into the starting WILL linebacker role alongside Roquan Smith.
• Rookie Jay Higgins IV has been designated to return from injured reserve and could fill the open roster spot.
• The loss comes as Baltimore prepares for its final regular-season home game and a postseason push.

Ravens Lose Key Rookie Defender Ahead of Playoff Run

The Baltimore Ravens’ defense has taken a significant hit at a crucial point in the season. Rookie inside linebacker Teddye Buchanan has been ruled out for the remainder of the year after tearing his ACL during the team’s Week 15 victory. The Ravens confirmed the season-ending injury earlier this week.

Buchanan, a fourth-round pick, had quickly earned a meaningful role in the linebacker rotation, making his loss especially impactful as Baltimore gears up for its playoff push.

How Buchanan’s Injury Happened

According to The Athletic, Buchanan sustained the injury during the Ravens’ dominant shutout win over the Cincinnati Bengals. The timing is particularly tough, as the team prepares for its final regular-season home game with postseason seeding on the line.

Buchanan had been one of the defense’s rising contributors, carving out snaps through consistent play and versatility. His absence leaves a noticeable gap in the middle of the field.

Trenton Simpson Takes Over Starting Duties

With Buchanan sidelined, third-year linebacker Trenton Simpson will take over at the WILL position. He’ll line up next to All-Pro veteran Roquan Smith, forming a duo the Ravens believe can stabilize the unit.

Simpson brings starting experience and is expected to shoulder most of the defensive workload. His elevation marks a key adjustment as Baltimore reshuffles its depth chart.

Jay Higgins IV Returns to Practice After IR Stint

The Ravens also received a boost with the return of rookie linebacker Jay Higgins IV, who has been designated to resume practicing. Higgins, an undrafted free agent, landed on injured reserve in Week 10 with a minor knee injury.

He now enters a 21-day evaluation window to rejoin the active roster. Before his injury, Higgins impressed during the preseason and contributed heavily on special teams, recording six tackles and a forced fumble.

His potential return could help offset Buchanan’s absence, especially given Baltimore’s strong track record of developing under-the-radar linebacker talent.

What Happens Next?

While losing Buchanan is a major setback, the Ravens remain confident in their depth. Simpson’s promotion and Higgins’ expected return give Baltimore viable options as they prepare for a deep postseason run.

The team will continue adjusting its defensive rotation in the coming weeks, hoping to maintain momentum despite the loss of one of its most promising young players.