Full Breakdown
Ravens Move QB Skylar Thompson to Injured Reserve, Add UFL Record-Setter Austin Reed
8/12/2026, 9:44:14 PM
Core Event
The Baltimore Ravens placed veteran quarterback Skylar Thompson on injured reserve, ending his participation in the 2026 preseason. In the same transaction, the team signed free-agent quarterback Austin Reed to a contract, adding a former United Football League (UFL) record-holder to the quarterback depth chart.
Background & Context
Thompson, 29, joined Baltimore after spending the 2025 season with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He was brought in to compete with Tyler Huntley for the backup role behind star quarterback Lamar Jackson. The move removes Thompson from the roster and elevates Huntley as the sole backup, while Reed will vie for a developmental spot alongside undrafted rookie Joe Fagnano.
Reed entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent following the 2024 NFL Draft, initially signing with the Chicago Bears. After being waived and later signed to a reserve/future contract in January 2025, he was released again in August 2025. His most recent professional experience came with the Dallas Renegades of the UFL.
Data & Statistics
- UFL performance: Reed completed 174 of 309 passes for 1,923 yards, 21 touchdowns, and nine interceptions. Dallas finished 4-6 with Reed as the starter, and he ranked second in the league in passing yards while setting the single-season UFL record for touchdown passes.
- College career: Reed threw 78 touchdown passes against 20 interceptions across 26 Division II appearances at West Florida and Western Kentucky.
- NFL preseason experience: In five preseason games with the Bears, Reed completed 23 of 33 passes for 230 yards and one touchdown.
What’s Next
Reed will participate in Baltimore’s upcoming preseason schedule, beginning with the Saturday night game against the Philadelphia Eagles. His performance in camp and preseason action will determine whether he secures a spot on the 53-man roster or remains on the practice squad as the Ravens finalize their quarterback depth chart for the 2026 regular season.
