Ray Buchanan

Raymond Louis Buchanan, known as “Big Play Ray,” lived up to his nickname throughout his twelve-year NFL career with the Indianapolis Colts, Atlanta Falcons, and Oakland Raiders, establishing himself as one of the league’s most explosive and athletic defensive backs.

Born in Chicago, Illinois, Buchanan attended Proviso East High School, where he excelled in both football and track and field, winning state championships in the long jump and triple jump. Yet it was on the football field where he found his true calling. He accepted a scholarship to play at the University of Louisville under legendary coach Howard Schnellenberger, who initially envisioned him as a wide receiver like his older brother Richard, a former NFL player. However, on his first day of practice, a mix-up placed a red defensive jersey in Buchanan’s hands—a moment that would change the course of his life.

Transitioning to defense, Buchanan quickly became a standout at both cornerback and safety, showcasing his speed, instincts, and knack for creating turnovers and explosive plays for the Cardinals. He was a key contributor during Louisville’s historic 1991 season, when the Cardinals finished 10-1-1 and defeated Alabama decisively in the Fiesta Bowl, where Buchanan earned Defensive MVP honors. He capped off his college career as an All-American his senior year, leaving Louisville as a dynamic playmaker and proven NFL prospect.

During his senior year at Louisville, Buchanan met his football idol, Deion Sanders, a moment that left a lasting impact on his mindset. Buchanan credits Sanders with instilling in him a confident edge, saying, “He showed me how to play arrogant and back it up.”

Buchanan was selected in the third round of the 1993 NFL Draft by the Indianapolis Colts, where he quickly made an impact as a “ball hawking” and big play making cornerback. In 1994 he took the league by storm; Buchanan led the NFL with three interceptions returned for a touchdown, proving he was problem for opposing quarterbacks. In 1997, he joined the Atlanta Falcons, where his career flourished. That season, he led the NFC in interceptions and lead one of the league’s most opportunistic defenses. His fiery attitude, trademark bandana, and trash-talking confidence made him a fan favorite for the Atlanta Falcons, and a feared opponent.

In 1998, Buchanan emerged as a game-changing force in the Falcons’ secondary, earning Pro Bowl and second-team All-Pro honors. He played a pivotal role in helping Atlanta reach Super Bowl XXXIII, showcasing his playmaking ability on the NFL’s biggest stage. True to his confident persona, Buchanan made headlines before the Super Bowl by joking that Denver Broncos star receiver Shannon Sharpe looked like the TV horse “Mr. Ed.” In the end, it was Sharpe who had the last laugh, as the Broncos defeated the Falcons 34-19 to claim the title.

During the Falcons’ 1998 Super Bowl run, Buchanan’s veteran leadership and clutch play were instrumental in Atlanta’s historic season. He remained a key contributor in the secondary for several seasons before finishing his career with the Oakland Raiders in 2004.

After his playing days were over, Buchanan remained involved in mentoring young athletes and has contributed to football as an analyst and commentator, including stints with the NFL Network and ESPN. Buchanan also worked as a co-host for Fox Sports Radio with Bruce Jacobs.

Ray Buchanan brought a fiery personality and used his elite athleticism to make a name for himself in the NFL. He helped bring a new kind of “swagger” to the NFL, revolutionizing the game making himself a fan favorite.

Headline photo from fandom.com/wiki. Profile photo from Alchetron, the free social encyclopedia. Bio by John T. Broome.