Jacoby Brissett Emerging as Potential Trade Target for Ravens

The Baltimore Ravens find themselves in a precarious situation regarding their quarterback position, particularly following the injury to Lamar Jackson. With Jackson placed on injured reserve after surgery on his thumb, the Ravens are now exploring options to bolster their quarterback depth. One name that has surfaced is Jacoby Brissett, the recently demoted quarterback from the Arizona Cardinals.

Brissett's situation at the Cardinals has shifted dramatically. After the team named Gardner Minshew II as the new starter, Brissett was pushed down to third-string, falling behind rookie Carson Beck. ESPN's Adam Schefter shed light on this development during an appearance on NFL Live, indicating that Brissett's demotion raises questions about his future with Arizona and opens the door for potential trade discussions.

Ravens in Need of Quarterback Help

The Ravens are currently facing a quarterback crisis. Jackson had recently returned from an ankle injury but lasted only a few plays against the Buffalo Bills before re-injuring himself. Following the game, Ravens head coach Jesse Minter confirmed that Jackson would need surgery, sidelining him for at least four games. Tyler Huntley, who stepped in for Jackson during his absence, also exited the game due to a turf toe injury, leading to undrafted rookie Joe Fagnano being named the starter for the upcoming game against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Fagnano's performance has raised concerns, as he completed just 10 of 21 passes for 91 yards and one interception in the team's recent loss. In light of these challenges, the Ravens are actively seeking options to ensure they have a competent quarterback under center as they navigate the remainder of the season.

Jacoby Brissett's Performance and Trade Potential

Brissett's recent statistics show that he has struggled during the 2026 season, having thrown for 1,719 yards, with 10 touchdowns and seven interceptions. His performance took a downturn during the team's recent game against the Dallas Cowboys, where he managed only 119 yards and an interception before being replaced by Minshew.

This decline in performance, coupled with his demotion, might make him an attractive option for the Ravens. Schefter noted, "We have an experienced, veteran starting quarterback who is now No. 3. Any team that is out there, like a Baltimore, would certainly have to look at Arizona for a potential trade target." This statement underscores the possibility that the Ravens could approach the Cardinals to discuss a trade for Brissett as they seek a reliable backup.

Ravens' Additional Quarterback Moves

In addition to potentially acquiring Brissett, the Ravens have taken steps to address their quarterback situation by signing Austin Reed to their practice squad. Reed, who went undrafted from Western Kentucky in 2023, has yet to see action in an NFL game but had a stint with the Ravens during training camp this past summer. His addition could provide another option for the Ravens as they navigate their quarterback challenges.

The Ravens have historically placed a strong emphasis on building depth in their quarterback room, especially given the physical demands of the position in the NFL. With Jackson's injury, Huntley’s uncertainty, and Fagnano's inexperience, making a move for an established quarterback such as Brissett might align with the team's immediate needs.

Future of Jacoby Brissett and Ravens' Decision-Making

While it remains unclear whether the Cardinals are open to trading Brissett, the Ravens must weigh their options carefully as the trade deadline approaches. The combination of Jackson's surgery and Huntley's injury has forced the Ravens into a tight corner, prompting a need for immediate and strategic action. The window for discussions regarding Brissett will likely intensify as the Ravens seek to stabilize their quarterback situation.

The NFL landscape is notoriously unpredictable, and trades can often materialize in unexpected ways. Should the Ravens decide to pursue Brissett, they would not only be acquiring a player with starting experience but also someone who has been on the field during critical moments in games. This could provide the Ravens with a much-needed sense of stability as they look to compete in a fiercely competitive AFC North.

As the trade deadline nears, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if the Ravens make a move for Brissett or another quarterback. For now, the focus remains on evaluating the current roster and preparing Fagnano for the challenges that lie ahead. The Ravens' ability to navigate this situation effectively could very well determine their trajectory for the rest of the season.

Frequently Asked Questions

What led to Jacoby Brissett's demotion with the Cardinals?

Brissett was demoted to third-string quarterback after the Cardinals named Gardner Minshew II as their starter and Carson Beck as the backup, raising questions about his future with the team.

Why are the Ravens considering a trade for Brissett?

With Lamar Jackson undergoing surgery and sidelined for at least four games, and Tyler Huntley also injured, the Ravens are seeking experienced quarterback options to ensure they remain competitive.