The Baltimore Ravens have officially released veteran quarterback Cooper Rush, following the franchise's decision to re-sign Tyler Huntley to a new contract. This move clarifies the Ravens' quarterback depth chart heading into the 2026 season and reinforces the team's commitment to continuity behind their star quarterback, Lamar Jackson.
Timing and Context of the Move
Cooper Rush signed with the Baltimore Ravens on March 18, 2025, agreeing to a two-year contract worth up to $12.2 million. He arrived to provide competition and depth behind Lamar Jackson and Tyler Huntley. However, over the course of the 2025 season, Rush never appeared in a regular-season game for Baltimore. Lamar Jackson remained healthy and highly effective, winning his second NFL MVP award and leading the Ravens to another deep playoff run, while Huntley solidified himself as the clear number two quarterback.
In early March 2026, the Ravens re-signed Tyler Huntley to a two-year deal reportedly worth up to $11 million. This contract extension affirmed Huntley's position as the primary backup quarterback. Consequently, Cooper Rush's release became a practical roster decision to open up space for younger or more cost-effective options behind Huntley.
Why Tyler Huntley Remains the Preferred Backup
Tyler "Snoop" Huntley has been a fixture in Baltimore's quarterback room since signing as an undrafted free agent in 2020. His mobility, understanding of the Ravens' offense, and demonstrated ability to perform under pressure have earned him the trust of the coaching staff led by head coach Jesse Minter and offensive coordinator Declan Doyle.
Huntley's skill set complements Lamar Jackson's dynamic style, enabling the offense to maintain continuity with minimal adjustment if Huntley needs to step in. The Ravens value Huntley's presence not only as a reliable on-field option but also as a veteran mentor and system steward in meetings and practice. This relationship and experience made Huntley the clear choice to back up Jackson going forward.
Cooper Rush's Impact and Future Prospects
Cooper Rush, 31, brought a different style to the Ravens' quarterback room -- a more traditional pocket passer compared to the dual-threat capabilities of Jackson and Huntley. Prior to joining Baltimore, Rush had a respectable run as a starter with the Dallas Cowboys, notably going 4-1 as a starter in 2022 after Dak Prescott's injury.
Despite his experience and professionalism, Rush's role in Baltimore remained limited, never advancing beyond a third-string position and practice squad duties. His release frees salary and roster space as the Ravens' front office, led by general manager Eric DeCosta, prepares to explore developmental quarterback options in the upcoming NFL Draft or through undrafted free agents.
Rush's proven track record as a reliable backup will likely attract interest from NFL teams seeking veteran depth. With several teams still searching for a stable backup, Rush could quickly find another opportunity in the league.
Ravens' Quarterback Depth Chart and Next Steps
Following Rush's release, Baltimore's quarterback depth chart stands as follows:
Lamar Jackson -- Franchise quarterback and two-time MVP.
Tyler Huntley -- Trusted backup and offense continuity specialist.
Vacant -- To be filled via draft or free-agent signings.
The Ravens have demonstrated a preference for developing talent internally or selecting quarterbacks in mid-to-late rounds, a path they have taken previously with players like Huntley himself. The vacancy at third-string quarterback opens a door for a young developmental player to join the roster and learn behind Jackson and Huntley.
Beyond the quarterback room, Baltimore's coaching staff remains stable and aligned with their identity. Head coach Jesse Minter leads alongside offensive coordinator Declan Doyle and defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver, with Eric DeCosta serving as the team's general manager.
The Bigger Picture
The release of Cooper Rush is emblematic of the NFL's competitive and ever-evolving nature, where roster moves are driven by a delicate balance of cost, continuity, and strategic fit. The Ravens' foremost priority remains supporting Lamar Jackson and preserving an offense tailored around his unique talents.
Huntley's retention highlights the franchise's commitment to stability, favoring a player who fits seamlessly into the Ravens' system. Rush's departure does not diminish his value as a backup quarterback but reflects the team's drive to optimize roster resources and maintain a quarterback room consistent with their offensive philosophy.
As Baltimore transitions into the 2026 offseason, the quarterback hierarchy is clear. Lamar Jackson continues as the cornerstone, supported by a proven and trusted Huntley, while the search for a developmental third option will shape forthcoming roster decisions.
This move closes Cooper Rush's chapter in Baltimore but opens new possibilities for him elsewhere. In the landscape of the NFL, with numerous teams facing quarterback uncertainty, Rush's experience and poise will keep him in consideration for future roles as a backup or mentor.
Conclusion
The Baltimore Ravens' release of Cooper Rush after re-signing Tyler Huntley is a logical roster move designed to prioritize continuity and cost efficiency. With a solid quarterback tandem in place, the Ravens are set to invest their resources in nurturing young talent behind Lamar Jackson and Huntley.
This decision reflects the stable, methodical approach of the Ravens' front office and coaching staff to maintain a competitive window around their franchise quarterback. Cooper Rush's departure marks a typical NFL transition for many veteran backups, yet his professional skill set ensures that his NFL journey is likely far from over.
As the Ravens prepare for the upcoming draft and offseason program, their focus remains on supporting Lamar Jackson's quest for further success while building a quarterback room that offers reliability, preparedness, and alignment with their offensive identity.