In this episode of Aggie Pride, Brock Galvin and Dwight Smith sit down with former UC Davis standout and current Baltimore Ravens linebacker Teddye Buchanan. The conversation traces his football journey from the Bay Area to UC Davis, his breakout season at Cal, and his rookie year in the NFL — along with the mindset, relationships, and habits that shaped him along the way.
Teddye shares how his father introduced him to football at a young age and how playing multiple sports helped shape his instincts and versatility as a linebacker.
He reflects on the recruiting process and why Davis stood out — not just for football, but for its people, culture, and genuine investment in him as a person.
Teddye discusses arriving as a freshman during COVID, learning a complex defensive system, and eventually becoming a playmaker and team leader on defense.
He shares what it was like navigating the transfer portal, preparing for his former team in Week 1, and delivering standout performances — including a defining game at Auburn that elevated his NFL profile.
Teddye explains how he learned to stop trying to “act like an NFL player” and instead lean into the version of himself that got him there.
From draft-day emotions to playing alongside Roquan Smith and meeting legends like Ray Lewis and Ed Reed, he reflects on the intensity and privilege of playing in Baltimore’s linebacker tradition.
Teddye talks about drawing as a creative outlet, how art helps him find flow and balance, and the importance of becoming a “total person.”
He shares insights into NFL-level preparation, including meditation, red-light therapy, and optimizing sleep to stay sharp during the long season.
Staying grounded through rapid success
The power of relationships and culture
Growth through discomfort
Balancing identity beyond football
Gratitude and perspective at the highest level
“I realized I just had to be me — that’s what got me here.”
“The people I met at Davis are people I’ll know for life.”
“You only get to be a rookie once.”
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