In what’s been a roller-coaster season for the Ravens, they’re going with a largely untested rookie under center on Thursday night.
With injuries to two-time MVP Lamar Jackson and backup Tyler Huntley, head coach Jesse Minter decided on Monday that rookie Joe Fagnano will get the start against the Jaguars.
Jackson went down on the first offensive snap in Sunday’s loss to the Bills with a thumb injury, and Huntley later exited with an injury of his own.
That thrust Fagnano, an undrafted rookie out of UConn, into the quarterback role. He went 10-for-21 passing with 91 yards and an interception while taking three sacks in relief.
Baltimore, earlier Tuesday, signed QB Kedon Slovis off the Packers’ practice squad and added him to the active roster. Austin Reed was added to Baltimore’s practice squad as the de facto third signal-caller.
Fagnano was also banged up during the loss to Buffalo and wore a brace on his ankle at Tuesday’s practice, ESPN reported.
Nonetheless, Fagnano is thrilled to be getting his first start as a professional.
“It’s special,” Fagnano told reporters. “It’s really the only way I can think about it.”
Minter said he believes in Fagnano’s composure under center and that he can handle the pressure of going against a 5-2 Jacksonville squad.
“He’s cool, calm and collected; doesn’t really get rattled, has a really good demeanor, played in a bunch of games in college. So, you certainly feel good about it,” Minter said.
“I thought we operated really well when he was in there in the preseason, just from time on the play clock and penalties and substitutions. So, I am excited to see him go out there Thursday.”
Fagnano, as UConn’s full-time starter last season, threw for 3,448 yards and 28 touchdowns, both of which led independent schools.
