Ravens' Nnamdi Madubuike Reportedly Expected to Return from Career-Threatening Injury After Surgery

Baltimore Ravens defensive tackle Nnamdi Madubuike underwent neck surgery last week, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.

The hope is that the two-time Pro Bowler will return to an NFL field in 2026.

Madubuike logged just two appearances last year after suffering a neck injury that was serious enough to put his career in limbo.

At the NFL Scouting Combine in March, the Ravens remained tight-lipped about the 28-year-old's playing status.

"You keep the players' health and long-term longevity at the forefront of anything, and so, that's what we'll do," coach Jesse Minter told reporters. "We will have multiple plans in place, but just excited for him. He's in a great frame of mind right now. He's excited, so just excited to see how it all shakes out."

Days after Minter made those remarks, Madubuike shared a video from one of his workouts, generating optimism that he was progressing enough to potentially suit up again.

Madubuike had a breakout 2023 season with Baltimore. He registered 13 sacks and 12 tackles for loss, parlaying his performance into a four-year, $98 million extension.

His sack total (6.5) was halved in 2024, but he remained an effective interior defender along Baltimore's line. He got off to an encouraging start a season ago, notching two sacks and seven total tackles through two games.

Last week, general manager Eric DeCosta told reporters Baltimore isn't hinging its draft plans too much on Madubuike's availability. If the team senses he could return, though, it may lessen the need to go for an interior defender in the early rounds.