Just 24 hours before opening up the preseason against the Eagles, the Baltimore Ravens received some good news on the defensive side of the football. Teddye Buchanan’s removal from the physically unable to perform list gives the Baltimore Ravens another starting-caliber linebacker, but it does not automatically push Trenton Simpson out of the defensive lineup.
Simpson retains an immediate advantage
Simpson has participated throughout the offseason and training camp, giving him valuable repetitions in Jesse Minter’s new defense. The fourth-year linebacker has worked alongside Roquan Smith while attempting to build on a 2025 season in which he recorded 66 tackles and a career-high 2½ sacks.
Buchanan will likely be eased back into practice after tearing his ACL on Dec. 14. That gradual return should allow Simpson to remain with the top defense while Buchanan rebuilds his conditioning and confidence.
Buchanan proved he can start
Simpson cannot become comfortable. Buchanan replaced him in the starting lineup early last season and finished second on the team with 93 tackles despite missing the final three games. His instincts, speed and reliability quickly earned the coaching staff’s trust.
Once Buchanan is fully cleared for team periods, the Ravens will again have a legitimate competition for the position beside Smith.
Baltimore can use both linebackers
Minter’s system could create roles for Simpson and Buchanan rather than forcing Baltimore to choose only one. Simpson’s athleticism gives him value as a blitzer, quarterback spy and edge defender, while Buchanan demonstrated the ability to play consistently as an every-down inside linebacker.
Buchanan’s return increases the pressure on Simpson, but it also improves Baltimore’s defensive flexibility. The competition should be determined by performance and weekly matchups, giving both linebackers opportunities to contribute without weakening the other’s development.
This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: What Teddye Buchanan’s return means for Trenton Simpson