The Los Angeles Chargers’ obsession with former Baltimore Ravens continues, as they’ve now added former safety Eddie Jackson to their roster. This move, coming just weeks after Baltimore released the two-time Pro Bowler, adds yet another ex-Raven to a Chargers squad that seems intent on recreating Baltimore’s success by raiding their former players.
Jackson joins a growing list of Ravens connections in Los Angeles, including head coach Jim Harbaugh, GM Joe Hortiz, and a slew of players like J.K. Dobbins, Hayden Hurst, and Gus Edwards. The timing of this signing is also notable, as the Chargers sit just one game behind the Ravens in the AFC standings but lost their head-to-head matchup in Week 12.
That loss showcased the difference between the two franchises. Baltimore’s culture and identity, forged over years of consistent success, remain intact. The Chargers? They’re still trying to copy the Ravens’ blueprint—and signing Jackson is just the latest example.
The Chargers can't stop and won't stop signing former Ravens players
At this point, it’s almost a running joke. The Chargers now have 16 former Ravens players, coaches, or front-office members in their organization, making them the most Ravens-adjacent team in the league.
While this strategy might seem flattering to Baltimore fans, it also underscores the glaring differences between the two teams.
Eddie Jackson is a prime example. After a productive stint with the Bears, Jackson struggled mightily in Baltimore this season, allowing 243 receiving yards and three touchdowns in limited snaps. He was eventually waived after being benched and made a healthy scratch in consecutive games. Now, the Chargers are hoping they can rekindle his All-Pro form from years ago.
The #Chargers signed former All-Pro safety Eddie Jackson, who was last with the Baltimore Ravens. pic.twitter.com/PFDJ1kcSHm
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) December 23, 2024
But the Ravens know better. Baltimore’s decision to part ways with Jackson came down to performance and fit—something the Chargers may be overlooking in their eagerness to build a Ravens replica.
The Chargers’ Week 12 loss to Baltimore highlighted the gulf between the two teams. Lamar Jackson accounted for three touchdowns, Derrick Henry rushed for 140 yards, and the Ravens’ defense stifled Justin Herbert for most of the night. Baltimore’s 30-23 victory showed why they remain a contender while the Chargers still feel like pretenders.
Despite their efforts to import Baltimore’s formula, the Chargers are learning it’s not so simple. The Ravens’ culture of accountability, physicality, and adaptability can’t be duplicated just by signing familiar names. Former Ravens offensive coordinator and current Chargers coordinator Greg Roman is learning running offenses without Lamar Jackson isn't as easy as running them with him.
Eddie Jackson might bring experience to the Chargers, but this move is yet another example of L.A. grasping for what makes Baltimore special. For Ravens fans, it’s hard not to laugh at the Chargers’ obsession.
They can have all the former Ravens they want—it’s clear the Ravens know how to win with or without them.