The Baltimore Ravens are reportedly set to sign former Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Skylar Thompson, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. This move comes as the Ravens continue to build out their quarterback depth, with Lamar Jackson as the primary starter. The team has already re-signed Tyler Huntley and signed UDFAs Diego Pavia and Joe Fagnano, and Thompson's addition will further strengthen their backup options.
Thompson, a seventh-round pick out of Kansas State, had an impressive training camp and preseason performance with the Steelers. He threw for 498 yards and four touchdowns across the preseason, becoming the first Steelers quarterback in at least 30 years to throw three touchdowns in an exhibition game. His calmness in the pocket, accuracy, and ability to put the ball in the end zone made him a standout performer. Thompson's strong showing earned him a spot on the 53-man roster as the team's No. 3 emergency quarterback.
However, his season took a turn when he suffered a hamstring injury during a September practice and was placed on injured reserve. This setback limited his playing time, as the Steelers carried just two quarterbacks on their 53-man roster until Will Howard returned from injury. Thompson's most notable off-field incident occurred during the team's trip to Dublin, Ireland, where he was robbed while preparing for a game against the Minnesota Vikings.
Despite his injury and the unfortunate incident, Thompson's NFL career has been marked by competition and resilience. He started three regular-season games and the 2022 Wild Card game against the Buffalo Bills, throwing one touchdown and two interceptions in a close loss. In the regular season, he has accumulated 721 yards, one touchdown, and three interceptions. Thompson's last in-stadium snaps came in 2024, indicating a potential shift in his role within the team.
The Ravens' decision to sign Thompson adds another layer of competition to their quarterback room. With Lamar Jackson as the clear starter, the team now has four quarterbacks in the fold, including Huntley, Pavia, Fagnano, and Thompson. This move could be a strategic move to ensure depth and flexibility, especially with the team's recent success and the potential for Lamar Jackson's long-term health.
In my opinion, the Ravens' signing of Skylar Thompson is an interesting development. It showcases the team's proactive approach to quarterback depth and their willingness to bring in talented players who can contribute in various roles. Thompson's performance and resilience, despite the setbacks, make him a valuable addition to the team's quarterback room. As the NFL season unfolds, it will be fascinating to see how the Ravens utilize their quarterback depth and whether Thompson finds a solid role within the team's offensive strategy.
