Ravens Release Backup QB After Tyler Huntley Deal

Baltimore wasted no time solidifying its quarterback hierarchy, announcing the release of Cooper Rush one year after signing the veteran to a two-year deal. The move, first reported by NFL insider Tom Pelissero, comes on the heels of Tyler Huntley’s freshly-inked two-year contract, a reward for outperforming Rush during the 2025 campaign.

Rush arrived last offseason billed as Lamar Jackson’s primary insurance policy, but the fit never materialized. He completed 65.4 percent of his passes for just 303 yards and four interceptions across four appearances, losing both of his spot starts. His second outing was so ineffective that Huntley replaced him mid-game and never relinquished the No. 2 job, guiding Baltimore to victories in both of his starts.

The decision to part ways with Rush is widely viewed inside the building as addition by subtraction. Front-office personnel questioned the initial signing, citing a schematic mismatch with the Ravens’ run-centric attack, and those concerns played out in real time for fans. With Huntley now entrenched behind Jackson, Baltimore turns its attention to restocking the depth chart.

The Ravens must identify a third quarterback, either through veteran free agency or the 2026 draft. Historically, the franchise has preferred late-round developmental passers, a strategy that paid off when it selected Jackson in the first round of the 2018 draft. Baltimore is expected to explore Day 3 options this spring, targeting a signal-caller who can spend multiple seasons learning behind the established tandem of Jackson and Huntley.

Rush leaves Baltimore after a forgettable tenure that rarely generated buzz among supporters. Free to seek a fresh start elsewhere, he exits as Huntley’s decisive promotion becomes official, ensuring the Ravens’ quarterback room is aligned for the upcoming season.