From what it seems, everything is not going well inside the Ravens‘ dressing room. They made a surprise move that set the stage for an interesting MNF clash with the Chargers, where the two HC Harbaugh brothers clash. While the fans are baffled by the sudden decision, Coach John Harbaugh doesn’t spit out much.

The Ravens released safety Eddie Jackson. The former Bears‘ Pro Bowl safety signed a one-year, $1.5 million deal contract in July. Jackson was set to play a significant role in the defensive line. But couldn’t quite live up to the expectations. “I really don’t have anything to say about those personnel decisions,” said HC John Harbaugh when asked about the release. This lack of insight and the way he said it left fans and analysts speculating about what had transpired inside the closed doors.

Jackson’s time in Baltimore was brief and uneventful. After a promising start in training camp, things quickly fell apart. Jackson allowed 16 catches on 23 targets and 250 yards in coverage and gave up three touchdowns. His coverage grade was ranked 84th out of 94 safeties in the NFL with a passer rating of 144.9. Pretty underwhelming, don’t you think?

The decision shows a shift in the Ravens‘ defensive strategy. They acted quickly and signed linebacker Kristian Welch to the 53-man roster. Welch was in the practice squad, and while he helps with depth, Jackson’s absence leaves a hole in the secondary. With the MNF approaching, the Ravens need to fill that gap fast. So, how will the defense adjust without Jackson?

Ahead of Chargers matchup, John Harbaugh adjusts Ravens’ defensive strategy

With Jackson gone, the Ravens’ remaining defensive backs need to step up. Kyle Hamilton and Ar’Darius Washington could possibly see more time at safety. Players like Marcus Williams also need to play a bigger role. The loss of Jackson leaves a dent in the depths, which could be a challenge.

In addition to Jackson’s exit, linebacker Roquan Smith’s injury complicates things further. Smith, tied for the NFL lead in tackles this year, has been a standout. But he is questionable for the MNF game. He has not even been practicing this week due to a hamstring injury. If he misses out, the Ravens will have to find a way to adjust their linebacker rotation. Trenton Simpson, Malik Harrison, and Chris Board might have to step in.

The Chargers (7-3), led by the other Harbaugh brother, Jim Harbaugh, won’t make things easy for the Ravens. With quarterback Justin Herbert and wide receiver Keenan Allen, the Chargers pose a serious threat. Amidst the uncertainties, the Ravens (7-4) need to step up their game to stop the high-powered offense and go one-up. They simply can’t afford any more missteps.

Monday night’s game could be a defining match for the Ravens. With both the Harbaugh brothers eyeing the playoffs, both teams will try to bring their A-game to the fore. But out of the two, it’s the Ravens, who desperately need their remaining players to rise to the occasion. How they adjust without Jackson and possibly Smith will determine their chances.