Buchanan also produced notable on-field moments, including a 15-tackle performance against the Houston Texans on October 5 and a pair of-driven plays—one forced fumble and a pass breakup—during his breakout rookie campaign. Those flashes appeared to signal a potential cornerstone role in Baltimore’s defense.
On the Ryan Ripken Show, Buchanan credited Roquan Smith for his development, describing Smith as the “best backer in the league” and a quarterback for the defense who he could lean on for guidance and connection on the field. The feedback underscored the value of veteran leadership as Buchanan navigated his first NFL year.
The ACL injury occurred December 14 against the Cincinnati Bengals, ending a season with 100-tackle potential in reach. Rehabilitation is projected at roughly nine months, placing Buchanan’s return in the earliest window of September. That timeline coincides with a defense transition, as Minter’s scheme emphasizes a front-loaded alignment with multiple players near the line of scrimmage.
With Minter implementing a five-down front and a two-linebacker structure, Buchanan could face questions about his role upon return. Trenton Simpson, who started in Buchanan’s spot earlier in the season, would enter the summer with a fuller grasp of the scheme, potentially challenging Buchanan for snaps and lifting special-teams responsibilities if a clearance to play time remains limited early.
Beyond scheme, the Ravens face turnover at several positions as free agency begins, including up to 19 unrestricted free agents. Buchanan’s path to a stable, extended role will depend on his rehab, how quickly he assimilates the new defense, and how his chemistry with Smith—and other linebackers—develops as the team rebuilds around a revamped unit.
