Linebacker Partrick Queen started 67 games for the Ravens from 2020 through 2023. The team moved on from him after his All-Pro season in 2023 under the mindset that their 2023 third rounder, Trenton Simpson out of Clemson, would be able to fit in after a season of development. The results were less than inspiring. Out of the 90 linebackers that were in coverage 260+ snaps, Simpson’s 125.8 passer rating allowed was ninth worst and his 87.9% reception percentage when targeted was tenth worst. Nobody was expecting him to play on the same level as Queen in his first year of actual playing time, but the pass defense has been a significant problem versus the AFC, a conference run by quarterbacks.
The number one positive to Teddye Buchanan’s scouting profile was the ability in coverage paired with his rare athleticism. One has to believe that was the discussion when the Baltimore was deciding who to take in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. This is a 233-pound linebacker who had eight interceptions in college. He also tested exceptionally well pre-draft with standout scores in the vertical, broad jump, and forty. While it is rare to see a fourth rounder start as a rookie, we do see day three and even undrafted linebackers make an impact year one every single season.
Prediction: Buchanan
If you created an ideal weak side linebacker for the Ravens defensive scheme in a factory, there is a good chance Buchanan's profile spits out. Speed? Check. Clean footwork? Check. Playmaking ability in coverage? Check. Range? Check. Blitz impact? Check. While Simpson has the experience on his side, 2024 was not year one for him in the purple and black. He played just 49 snaps as a rookie but his number was called 17+ months after he was drafted and the game seemed too fast for him. This is a Ravens pass defense that has ranked 31st, 6th, 26th, 32nd in yards allowed through the air the past four years. They must chase after better assets in coverage.