Ravens All-Pro linebacker Roquan Smith, listed as questionable for tonight's game due to a hamstring injury, is not expected to play against the Los Angeles Chargers, according to NFL Insider Adam Schefter. Smith has not missed a game with the Ravens due to injury since joining the team in 2022.
Ravens’ All-Pro linebacker Roquan Smith, who is questionable for tonight’s game due to a hamstring injury, is unlikely to play vs. the Chargers, per sources. Smith has not missed a game as a Raven because of injury. pic.twitter.com/sz2kT28F8i
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) November 25, 2024More News: Steelers Outlast Ravens, Earn Massive AFC North Victory
Smith is officially questionable for the Week 12 matchup against the Chargers. While the 7-4 Ravens may be tempted to play him, it seems the team is playing it safe by allowing Smith to rest and fully recover, particularly as they prepare for a critical stretch of games later in the season.
The Ravens lost their defensive leader in the middle of the field during their Week 11 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers when Roquan Smith suffered a hamstring injury. Smith exited in the fourth quarter and was quickly ruled out for the remainder of the game.
Before the injury, Smith had been outstanding, leading the team with 13 tackles—most in the game—including two for a loss. He had been instrumental in slowing down Pittsburgh's rushing attack, delivering a strong performance up until his departure.
With Smith sidelined, Trenton Simpson, Malik Harrison, and Chris Board will need to step up, both physically and strategically, to defend against a Chargers offense led by star quarterback Justin Herbert. They'll also face a tough rushing attack that includes former Ravens J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards.
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Smith was drafted 8th overall by the Chicago Bears in 2018, Smith quickly established himself as one of the NFL's top linebackers, earning multiple Pro Bowl selections and First-Team All-Pro honors. In 2022, he was traded to the Baltimore Ravens, where he continued to dominate on defense.
Smith made history in 2023, becoming the first NFL defensive player to record 20+ tackles in a single game that season. He also set a career-high with 21 tackles (14 solo) in a loss to the Cleveland Browns, joining Ray Lewis as the only Ravens in franchise history to record 20+ tackles in a game. With over 600 tackles, multiple sacks, and interceptions, Smith is regarded as one of the league's best linebackers.
Unsurprisingly, if Smith does not play against the 7-3 Chargers tonight, it could make a huge difference in the direction of the season. Hopefully, the Ravens are making the right call.
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