After losing both Lamar Jackson and Tyler Huntley to season-ending injuries, the Baltimore Ravens had to make a move. While he showed a few encouraging flashes in Week 8, Joe Fagnano was never going to be the answer for the rest of the year.
That said, there weren't many intriguing alternatives available in the trade market. Players like Daniel Jones, Anthony Richardson, and Tyson Bagent would have raised more questions than answers.
Jacoby Brissett was always the best realistic option, and the Ravens knew it. Per Ian Rapoport, the Ravens are finalizing a trade for Brissett. Trade compensation details have not yet been revealed. With the veteran quarterback at the helm, Baltimore might be able to fight its way back into the playoffs.
Baltimore Ravens' Jacoby Brissett trade keeps glimmer of playoff hopes alive
To many analysts, the Ravens' season ended when Jackson's did. Without its star quarterback, Baltimore didn't have what it needed to field a functional offense. The Ravens have had a backup quarterback problem for years, and this season was no different. In fact, Baltimore is just 6-13 without Jackson since 2020. There simply hasn't been consistent QB play behind Jackson.
Brissett changes that. He has been one of the NFL's most reliable backups for years, producing borderline starting-caliber play across multiple situations.
This season, it has been clear that Brissett is no longer at his peak. He missed multiple open throws in Week 8 against the Dallas Cowboys, leading to his benching. Still, he can give the Ravens competent quarterback play.
Brissett currently ranks 22nd in EPA per play, 18th in success rate, and 19th in completion rate. He's ahead of quarterbacks like Sam Darnold and Aaron Rodgers in each category.
Best of all, he protects the football. Since 2022, Brissett has the 11th-best interception rate in the NFL. Conveniently enough, he's tied with Jackson at 1.6%.
He's not a star by any means, but the Ravens shouldn't need much more than a slightly below-average quarterback to put together a capable offense.
Now, the onus is on Declan Doyle to reshape his offense around Brissett. The veteran doesn't have the mobility that Jackson does, and at this stage in his career, he can't access all of the same throws. The offense will have to be built around Derrick Henry and the rushing attack more than ever.
Baltimore needs a few other areas to improve to fuel a playoff push. Jesse Minter's defense will need to turn things around, and a non-Zay-Flowers pass catcher will need to step up. But if a few things fall into place, Brissett at least gives the Ravens a chance to make the playoffs.
Of course, Fagnano is still expected to start for the Ravens against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Thursday. Brissett will likely make his first start for Baltimore against the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 10.
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