Ravens LB Teddye Buchanan likely tears ACL, ending rookie season; team loses second starter

Ravens linebacker Teddye Buchanan is likely to miss the remainder of the season due to a suspected torn ACL, marking a significant setback for both him and the team.

Why it matters: Buchanan’s injury compounds the challenges facing the Ravens' defense as they lose another key player just weeks into the season.

• With Pro Bowl defensive tackle Nnamdi Madubuike already sidelined for the year, the Ravens are grappling with depth issues in a critical phase of their campaign.
• Buchanan was a promising rookie fourth-round pick who had quickly become a core component of the defense.

What’s new: The injury occurred during the first quarter of a game against the Cincinnati Bengals, where Buchanan was carted off after injuring his right knee while covering a punt.

• This unfortunate incident unfolded shortly after he recorded five tackles for a loss and showcased his potential as a future star.
• Following the game, in which the Ravens secured a 24-0 victory against the Bengals, Buchanan left the stadium using a cane.

By the numbers: Before the injury, Buchanan had made 11 starts and registered 83 tackles, placing him second on the team behind fellow linebacker Roquan Smith, who has amassed 100 tackles this season.

• His contributions included two quarterback hits and half a sack, highlighting his versatility and effectiveness as an inside linebacker.

Yes, but: While injuries are part of the game, losing two starters so early presents significant hurdles for a unit that relies heavily on its defensive prowess.

• Roquan Smith expressed his dismay over Buchanan's injury, stating, "It sucks anytime you see your guy go down... I know it's a minor setback for him," indicating belief in Buchanan's resilience and future.

What’s next: The Ravens will need to explore immediate solutions for filling Buchanan's role, potentially looking at their practice squad or free agency for depth.

• Defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald faces a crucial decision about how to adjust the team's scheme to accommodate these losses while maintaining competitive performance.

The bottom line: Buchanan’s injury highlights not only his personal challenge but also the broader implications for the Ravens as they navigate the rest of the season without several key contributors.

• For a team with playoff aspirations, maintaining defensive stability will be paramount going forward.