Ravens Reveal Plan for Roquan Smith’s Absence

The Baltimore Ravens are facing a tough challenge in their upcoming game against the Los Angeles Chargers, as linebacker Roquan Smith may be sidelined due to a hamstring injury.

Smith, who exited the Ravens’ narrow 18-16 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 11, has been one of the top performers on the defense this season, ranking among the league’s leaders in tackles.

However, after missing practice during the week, it appears unlikely that he will be available to play on Monday Night Football.

Defensive coordinator Zach Orr stated that the Ravens would take a committee approach to fill the potential void left by Smith’s absence.

Orr emphasized that the defensive strategy would depend on what the Chargers present, and it could involve a combination of players stepping up to fill the role.

“It’ll be linebacker by committee,” Orr noted, indicating a collective effort rather than one player trying to replicate Smith’s impact.

Roquan Smith has been an essential part of the Ravens’ defense, with his 110 tackles tying him for the most in the NFL this season.

As a two-time First-Team All-Pro and Pro Bowler, Smith’s leadership and playmaking ability are hard to replace. If he is unable to play, second-year linebacker Trenton Simpson is expected to step up significantly.

Simpson has already played a large role this season, contributing 64 tackles and five tackles for loss. Additionally, fellow linebackers Malik Harrison and Chris Board will be relied upon to contribute.

Although Simpson and others are expected to take on more responsibility, Orr acknowledged that no one can fully replace Smith’s level of play.

“Not one person is going to replace Roquan,” Orr said. “We like our guys that we have in the room, and somebody has to step up.”

All-Pro safety Kyle Hamilton will also have an expanded role, as he will wear the green dot on his helmet, signaling that he will be calling plays on the field.

The Ravens, sitting at 7-4, will face the Chargers (7-3) at SoFi Stadium, with the game set for 8:15 p.m. ET on Monday Night Football. With Smith’s absence looming, the Ravens will need their defense to rally together and find ways to contain the Chargers’ high-powered offense.