The Baltimore Ravens have another problem to deal with after putting on one of their greatest defensive efforts of the season.

Due to a hamstring issue, Roquan Smith was unable to participate in practice on Friday. Smith’s status appears to be uncertain, even if the Ravens did not formally rule him or anyone else out for Monday night’s game.

If Roquan is unable to go, it will undoubtedly be difficult,” defensive coordinator Zach Orr stated. “We’re hoping for the best and all that.” I believe it will only be decided by committee. Roquan will not be replaced by anyone. Roquan is a linebacker who plays every down.

Despite their 18-16 loss last weekend, the Ravens, who rank 26th in the league for total defense, did not give up a score, which was encouraging. On Monday, Baltimore will travel to play the Los Angeles Chargers.

One significant problem appears to have been avoided by the Ravens. The next week against Pittsburgh, star safety Kyle Hamilton was able to play almost every defensive action after suffering an ankle injury against Cincinnati on November 7.

Players from the Baltimore Ravens celebrate during the first half.

Smith didn’t practice on Thursday or Friday, either, because he was injured in that game. If Smith is unable to travel, linebacker Malik Harrison, who recorded a season-high amount of tackles last weekend, is anticipated to play a larger role.

“You’re one play away from going in there—you never know, so you got to stay ready,” we remind these boys. Orr stated, “Malik—he was ready.” I felt he did a nice job, especially after he settled down after the first series. We anticipate that from him.

It’s difficult to predict whether Baltimore’s defensive showing from last week will mark a sea change. The Ravens gave up 38 points to Cincinnati the next game after giving up only 10 points in a resounding victory over Buffalo in Week 4. A few days later, the Ravens were thrashed by the Bengals once more after giving up just 10 points against Denver.

Therefore, they haven’t yet demonstrated that they can play defense and improve.

Players from the Cincinnati Bengals in the first half

It’s easier said than done, in my opinion. We kind of got caught up in saying that versus Buffalo, but the following week we didn’t do it, Hamilton said.

We’re conscious of it now and know that we performed well in the game, but I believe we can improve significantly, and I believe that’s the attitude that every defensive player is currently exhibiting.

One of the things that makes Hamilton so valuable is his ability to have an influence wherever on the field. The Ravens can attempt to stop huge passing plays, though, by putting him deep in the defense.

In the previous game, Joe Burrow threw for 428 yards and four touchdowns, while Russell Wilson of Pittsburgh only managed 205 yards against Baltimore.

I’ve always thought of myself as secure. “A versatile player, but ultimately, I believe I play safety,” Hamilton remarked. “If I’m asked to play safety, I feel like it won’t be a problem because I’m a safety.