Ravens Start Undrafted Rookie Joe Fagnano Against Jaguars

The Baltimore Ravens will start undrafted rookie Joe Fagnano at quarterback for Thursday night's game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at M&T Bank Stadium. The team faces significant roster challenges after starter Lamar Jackson was placed on injured reserve with a thumb injury and backup Tyler Huntley was ruled out for the season with a turf toe injury.

Fagnano, a 25-year-old who played collegiately at Maine and UConn, becomes the second undrafted rookie to start at quarterback for the Ravens in the franchise's 32-year history. With the team currently holding a 4-4 record and attempting to break a three-game losing streak, the rookie faces a formidable test against a Jacksonville defense currently ranked first in the NFL against the run.

To provide depth at the position, the Ravens signed Austin Reed to the 53-man roster, and he will serve as the backup for Thursday's contest. Kedon Slovis, recently signed from the Green Bay Packers' practice squad, will be available as the emergency third quarterback. Reports indicate the Ravens are also finalizing a trade for veteran Jacoby Brissett, though he is not expected to be available until the team's Week 10 game against the Los Angeles Chargers.

The Ravens' secondary will also be shorthanded for the primetime matchup. Top cornerback Nate Wiggins has been ruled inactive due to an illness, forcing the team to rely on veterans Marlon Humphrey, Chidobe Awuzie, and T.J. Tampa to defend against Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence. Additionally, starting safety Jaylinn Hawkins remains sidelined with a knee injury.

On the opposing sideline, the Jacksonville Jaguars enter the game with a 5-2 record and momentum following a dominant 42-7 victory over the Indianapolis Colts. Despite being listed as questionable throughout the week due to ankle and foot issues, Jaguars running back Bhayshul Tuten is active and expected to lead the team's rushing attack. Defensive end Travon Walker is also cleared to play after dealing with a rib injury.

The game will be broadcast nationally on Amazon Prime Video, with kickoff scheduled for 8:15 p.m. ET. Al Michaels will provide play-by-play commentary, joined by analyst Kirk Herbstreit and sideline reporter Kaylee Hartung. The pregame, halftime, and postgame studio coverage will be hosted by Charissa Thompson, featuring analysis from former NFL players Tony Gonzalez, Richard Sherman, Ryan Fitzpatrick, and Andrew Whitworth.