newsweek
The Baltimore Ravens made another change to their quarterback depth chart on Friday, announcing the release of Austin Reed. The decision came shortly after the team completed a trade for veteran Jacoby Brissett, a move that reshapes a position group hit hard by injuries.
Baltimore confirmed the Brissett acquisition earlier in the day, sending a 2027 fourth-round pick and a 2028 seventh-round pick to the Arizona Cardinals in exchange for the quarterback and a 2027 fifth-round selection. The Ravens announced Reed's release on their official X account, posting: "We have released QB Austin Reed."
Reed had been added to the 53-man roster earlier in the week after spending part of training camp and the preseason with Baltimore. His departure creates a roster spot for Brissett, who is expected to provide experienced depth behind a depleted quarterback room.
The Ravens' quarterback situation became dire when starter Lamar Jackson suffered a right thumb injury on the opening offensive play against the Buffalo Bills. Jackson was placed on injured reserve and is expected to undergo surgery. Backup Tyler Huntley also sustained a toe injury in the same game and was placed on injured reserve, with reports indicating the injury is season-ending. The team was left without its top two quarterbacks.
Rookie Joe Fagnano was forced into action and made his first NFL start against the Jacksonville Jaguars, but struggled in a 33-10 loss, completing 10 of 18 passes for 60 yards with two interceptions. The Ravens have now lost four consecutive games and have been held below 14 points in each of those contests, a first in franchise history.
Key Analysis
The addition of Brissett provides a veteran presence for a Ravens team that has been decimated at quarterback. With Jackson and Huntley sidelined, Brissett offers experience and stability, while the release of Reed is a corresponding move to clear roster space. Baltimore's recent scoring drought underscores the urgency of finding a spark on offense as the season progresses.
Originally reported by newsweek.