Earlier today the Ravens lost defensive end Cory Redding to their former defensive coordinator (now head coach of the Colts) Chuck Pagano.  This afternoon they lost another piece of their defense, linebacker Jarrett Johnson to the San Diego (Super) Chargers.

Johnson spent all nine of his professional seasons with the Ravens and was often the unsung hero of some strong defenses.  The Ravens selected him in the fourth round of the 2003 draft from Alabama.

As Jeff Zrebiec of the Baltimore Sun points out,  Johnson spent more time on the sidelines in 2011 during pass situations as the Ravens used Paul Kruger on the rush.

He was a valuable run stopper in the Ravens defense and was well respected in the locker room.   Johnson signed a four year deal with the Chargers and the Ravens will likely look to replace him through the draft.

His current replacements are Kruger and Sergio Kindle (who I have no faith in at this point).