Baltimore, MD – June 17, 2025
While most of the attention in Ravens camp has focused on stars like Lamar Jackson and Kyle Hamilton, it’s a quiet, focused rookie who’s starting to generate serious buzz. Linebacker Teddye Buchanan, a Day 3 draft pick with minimal fanfare, is rapidly emerging as one of the team’s most intriguing new assets—and he might just be the surprise Baltimore didn’t know it needed.
Known for his elite instincts and sideline-to-sideline range, Buchanan has been described as a “football magnet” by teammates and coaches alike. The former Illinois standout is showing a knack for being around the ball, whether it’s breaking up passes, flying into run fits, or diagnosing plays before they develop.
"You don’t coach that kind of feel for the game," said one Ravens assistant. "He’s in the right spot way too often for it to be a coincidence."
Despite being selected in the later rounds of the 2025 NFL Draft, Buchanan is making it clear that he’s not just here to compete—he’s here to contribute. With the linebacker depth chart still sorting itself out behind Roquan Smith, there’s a very real chance Buchanan could carve out a rotational role—or more—by Week 1.
Veteran observers at OTAs have noted his ability to communicate at a high level, even among more experienced defenders. His awareness, calm presence, and relentless motor have turned heads.
"Every year there’s one guy who comes in and looks like he belongs from day one. This year, it’s Teddye," a team insider noted.
With Baltimore’s recent track record of developing under-the-radar talent into reliable starters—see Geno Stone and Patrick Queen—Buchanan could be the next name on that growing list. His versatility also makes him a potential weapon on special teams, giving him multiple paths to stick on the final roster.
If he continues at this pace through training camp and preseason, don’t be surprised if the Ravens unleash their next defensive playmaker—and he wasn't even on most draft boards in April.
“He’s quiet, he’s humble, but the tape speaks loud,” a scout said. “And right now, it’s screaming.”
Baltimore may have just struck gold again.
