The Baltimore Ravens have moved quickly to address a critical quarterback crisis, signing former Chicago Bears signal-caller Austin Reed to their practice squad. This strategic addition comes as the team faces a short week ahead of a high-stakes Thursday Night Football contest against the AFC-contending Jacksonville Jaguars. With uncertainty clouding the roster, Reed’s presence provides a vital safety net for an offense that has suddenly lost its primary and secondary options.
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The urgency of this move stems from a brutal Sunday loss to the Buffalo Bills, where starting quarterback Lamar Jackson suffered a thumb injury on his throwing hand and was placed on injured reserve. Compounding the issue, backup Tyler Huntley exited the same game with a reported turf-toe injury, leaving his availability for Thursday night in serious question. If Huntley cannot play, undrafted rookie Joe Fagnano, who finished the Bills game, is poised to start, making Reed’s addition a crucial insurance policy for the coaching staff.
Reed, who went undrafted in 2024, brings recent professional experience to Baltimore’s depth chart. He spent the 2024 season on the Bears’ practice squad before being waived ahead of the 2025 campaign, where he subsequently led the UFL in passing touchdowns while playing for the Dallas Renegades. Although Reed was previously waived during the Ravens’ final roster cuts, his immediate re-signing highlights the team’s proactive approach to managing risk. As the NFL season progresses, having a proven backup on the practice squad ensures the Ravens can react swiftly if further injuries derail their passing attack.
Source: Yahoo Sports
