Ravens Place Veteran QB on Injured Reserve

The Baltimore Ravens have placed veteran quarterback Skylar Thompson on injured reserve, according to the team's announcement. Thompson, who recently joined the Ravens this offseason after a successful 2025 season with the Pittsburgh Steelers, missed the team's last couple of training camp practices. In response to Thompson's injury, the Ravens signed free agent quarterback Austin Reed.

Thompson, 29, was brought in to compete with veteran Tyler Huntley for the backup role to Lamar Jackson. However, Huntley now appears to be the clear favorite to secure this position, especially considering his previous success in the role. Jackson has faced numerous injuries throughout his career, and the Ravens need a reliable backup to help keep them competitive for the 2026 championship aspirations.

Reed, who previously played for the Dallas Renegades of the United Football League (UFL), finished the 2025 season with a 4-6 record as a starter, while recording the second-most passing yards (1,923) and setting the UFL single-season record for passing touchdowns (21). Reed made his NFL debut as an undrafted free agent in 2024 out of the NFL Draft and had one season with the Chicago Bears before being waived.

He now competes with undrafted rookie Joe Fagnano to replace Thompson, who had a notable rookie season and his final year with the Ravens, throwing for 721 yards, one touchdown, and three interceptions.