Adam Schefter reports Ravens defensive tackle Nnamdi Madubuike is expected to return this season after undergoing neck surgery following a serious injury. The news comes as the Ravens are retooling and preparing for the 2026 season, and most Ravens fans and analysts were eager for news on the Pro Bowl defensive tackle.  Madubuike was placed on injured reserve with a neck injury before the Ravens' 37-20 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs.

There have been rumors of a potential retirement, but Madubuike has been optimistic, and a recent workout video made Ravens fans extremely happy about a 2026 return. Madubuike's 21.5 sacks since the start of the 2023 season were the most by an NFL defensive tackle over that span before his injury. Madubuike, 27, had played in 55 straight games before injuring his neck in a 41-17 win over the Cleveland Browns on September 14.

From the start of 2023 until he was placed on injured reserve on Sept. 27, Madubuike’s 21.5 sacks were the most among NFL defensive tackles. His 69 career QB hits are the most by a Raven player since 2020. https://t.co/uO7d1MECCy

Madubuike led the Ravens and all NFL defensive tackles with 13 sacks in 2023 and was off to a strong start with two sacks in the Ravens' first two games of 2025. The Ravens signed Madubuike, 27, to a four-year, reported $98 million contract extension before the 2024 season. John Jenkins and Travis Jones had breakout seasons in Madubuike's extended absence.

This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Ravens DT Nnamdi Madubuike expected back after injury scare