The Baltimore Ravens have made a major move in securing their quarterback future by signing former Dallas Cowboys free-agent quarterback Cooper Rush to a two-year contract worth up to $12.2 million. Rush, who spent the past five seasons as the Cowboys’ backup quarterback, is expected to provide much-needed depth behind Lamar Jackson, who remains the face of the franchise but has dealt with injuries in recent years. This signing not only solidifies the Ravens’ quarterback situation but also raises important questions about the team’s long-term plans at the position.

With this agreement, the Ravens have taken a proactive step in ensuring that their championship aspirations are not derailed by injuries or a lack of depth at quarterback. Rush, known for his accuracy, leadership, and ability to manage the game, is a perfect fit for Baltimore’s run-heavy offense, which emphasizes ball control and short, high-percentage passes. But what exactly does this signing mean for the Ravens? How does Rush compare to other backup quarterbacks in the league? And what does this say about the Ravens’ future plans at quarterback? This essay will explore the details of this game-changing signing, its impact on the team, and the broader implications for the NFL.

Why Cooper Rush? The Perfect Backup for Lamar Jackson

The Ravens’ decision to sign Cooper Rush over other available free-agent quarterbacks was not made lightly. Rush brings a unique combination of experience, leadership, and football intelligence that makes him an ideal game manager for Baltimore’s offense.

1. Proven Backup Experience

Rush spent five seasons (2019-2023) as Dak Prescott’s backup with the Dallas Cowboys, stepping in during two separate stints when Prescott was injured. During his time as the starter, Rush posted impressive numbers, throwing for over 1,200 yards, 12 touchdowns, and just 2 interceptions in limited opportunities. His ability to keep the Cowboys competitive during Prescott’s absences proved that he could handle the pressure of being an NFL starting quarterback.

2. A Perfect Fit for Baltimore’s System

Unlike some backup quarterbacks who struggle in run-heavy offenses, Rush has experience playing in a similar system during his time in Dallas. The Ravens rely heavily on Lamar Jackson’s mobility, play-action passes, and short throws, which perfectly align with Rush’s strengths as a smart, accurate passer. Rush’s ability to manage the game and make quick decisions will be invaluable to the Ravens, especially in blowouts or in situations where Jackson needs rest.

3. Leadership and Football IQ

One of the most underrated aspects of Rush’s game is his leadership and football intelligence. He has been praised by teammates and coaches alike for his ability to prepare like a starter, even when he is the backup. His high football IQ allows him to quickly diagnose defenses, make adjustments at the line of scrimmage, and lead a professional offense—something that is crucial for a team that relies on a mobile quarterback like Lamar Jackson.

What This Means for the Ravens’ Offense

The signing of Cooper Rush provides the Ravens with stability and depth at the quarterback position, which has been a concern in recent years due to Lamar Jackson’s injury history. While Jackson remains one of the most electrifying players in the NFL, he has dealt with multiple injuries, including a significant knee injury in 2022 that caused him to miss time. Rush’s presence ensures that the Ravens will have a competent, experienced quarterback ready to step in if Jackson is forced to miss time.

1. Protecting the Ravens’ Playoff Hopes

In the AFC, where the competition is fierce, injuries can make or break a team’s season. The Ravens have built a strong supporting cast around Jackson, including a dominant offensive line, elite running backs, and explosive playmakers, but none of that matters if they don’t have a quarterback who can execute the game plan. Rush’s ability to steer the ship in Jackson’s absence ensures that the Ravens will not suffer major setbacks if injuries strike.

2. A Balanced Offensive Approach

One of the criticisms of the Ravens’ offense in recent years has been its over-reliance on Lamar Jackson’s legs. While Jackson’s mobility is one of his greatest strengths, it also puts a tremendous amount of stress on his body. Rush’s presence allows the Ravens to lean on a more traditional passing game when needed, which could help prolong Jackson’s career by reducing his workload.

3. Game Management in Blowouts

One of the biggest challenges for any backup quarterback is managing the game in blowouts. Whether the Ravens are winning by a large margin or trailing significantly, Rush’s experience as a starter means he knows how to control the tempo of the game, make smart decisions, and avoid costly mistakes. This will be especially important in high-pressure situations, such as the playoffs, where every play matters.

How Rush Compares to Other Backup Quarterbacks in the NFL

While many teams treat their backup quarterback position as an afterthought, the Ravens have shown that they value quality depth at the most important position on the field. Rush’s two-year, $12.2 million contract puts him among the highest-paid backup quarterbacks in the league, a move that signals Baltimore’s commitment to winning now.

1. Compared to Other High-Paid Backup QBs

Some of the other top-paid backup quarterbacks in the NFL include:

Jimmy Garoppolo (New England Patriots) – $15 million per year
Trevor Siemian (Denver Broncos) – $11 million per year
Chase Daniel (Kansas City Chiefs) – $9 million per year

While Rush’s contract is slightly lower than Garoppolo’s, it is still a significant investment, showing that the Ravens view him as more than just a “camp arm”—they see him as a legitimate starter if needed.

2. What This Means for Lamar Jackson’s Future

Some analysts have speculated that this move could signal that the Ravens are preparing for life after Lamar Jackson. While there is no indication that Jackson’s future in Baltimore is in jeopardy, Rush’s presence ensures that the team will not be caught off guard if Jackson decides to pursue free agency or if injuries force the team to look for an alternative long-term solution.

The Broader Implications for the NFL

Rush’s signing is not just important for the Ravens—it has broader implications for the NFL as a whole. In an era where injuries are common and quarterback depth is more important than ever, teams must be proactive in securing high-quality backups.

1. Other Teams May Follow Suit

With Rush receiving a massive contract for a backup quarterback, other teams may be forced to re-evaluate their own quarterback situations. Teams with aging starters or injury-prone quarterbacks may now be more willing to spend big money on reliable backups to avoid being caught off guard.

2. Backup QBs Are More Valuable Than Ever

Rush’s deal proves that backup quarterbacks are no longer just “emergency fill-ins”—they are critical pieces of a team’s championship aspirations. In today’s NFL, where parity is the norm, having a competent, experienced backup can be the difference between making the playoffs and missing out.

Conclusion: The Ravens’ Smart Investment in Cooper Rush

In conclusion, the Ravens’ signing of Cooper Rush to a two-year, $12.2 million contract is a brilliant move that ensures stability and depth at the quarterback position. Rush’s experience, leadership, and football intelligence make him the perfect fit for Baltimore’s system, providing the team with a legitimate starter if needed.

As the 2024 NFL season approaches, one thing is clear: the Ravens are once again positioning themselves as serious Super Bowl contenders. With Lamar Jackson, Cooper Rush, an elite offensive line, and a dominant running game, Baltimore has all the pieces in place for another deep playoff run. And if Jackson goes down, the Ravens will not be left scrambling—they will have a proven, high-quality quarterback ready to step in and keep the team competitive.

In the NFL, championships are won with great quarterbacks, but they are sustained with great depth. And with Cooper Rush now in the fold, the Ravens have ensured that they are prepared for anything.