The Baltimore Ravens added a familiar quarterback Monday, signing Austin Reed to the practice squad as they prepare for a short-week matchup with the Jacksonville Jaguars under significant uncertainty at the position. Baltimore waived fullback Lucas Scott from the practice squad to make room for Reed, who spent part of training camp and the preseason with the Ravens. The move comes one day after Lamar Jackson injured his right thumb on Baltimore’s first offensive snap during a 36-10 loss to the Buffalo Bills.

Head coach Jesse Minter said Jackson will require surgery and be placed on injured reserve, sidelining him for at least four games. Tyler Huntley replaced Jackson but sustained a toe injury during the second quarter. His status for Thursday night remains uncertain, leaving undrafted rookie Joe Fagnano as the only healthy quarterback on Baltimore’s active roster entering the week.

Austin Reed returns to a familiar offense

Reed initially joined the Ravens on Aug. 12 after Baltimore placed Skylar Thompson on injured reserve. He spent the remainder of training camp with the team before being waived during the final roster reduction.

The 26-year-old made an immediate impression three days after his first signing. Reed completed both of his passes for 14 yards and scored on a 14-yard scramble during Baltimore’s 24-7 preseason victory over the Philadelphia Eagles.

His familiarity with the offense and coaching staff made Reed a logical addition before a Thursday night game that leaves Baltimore with limited preparation time. Because Reed joined the practice squad rather than the active roster, the Ravens would need to elevate or sign him before he could play against Jacksonville.

Reed previously spent time with the Chicago Bears after signing as an undrafted free agent in 2024. He later played for the Dallas Renegades in the United Football League, finishing second in the league with 1,923 passing yards and setting a UFL single-season record with 21 touchdown passes in 2026. He threw nine interceptions while starting all 10 games.

Ravens face immediate quarterback decision

Baltimore must now determine whether Huntley can return on four days’ rest or whether Fagnano will make his first NFL start. Fagnano completed 10 of 21 passes for 91 yards, with an interception and a lost fumble, in his regular-season debut against Buffalo.

Reed gives the Ravens another quarterback who can run the offense and handle practice reps while Jackson begins his recovery. It doesn't resolve the immediate uncertainty, but it gives Baltimore needed depth before a game that could determine whether the 4-4 Ravens remain within reach of the AFC North race.