Quarterback Ryan Mallett is expected to make his first start for the Baltimore Ravens Sunday when they host the red-hot Pittsburgh Steelers, according to NFL Media's Ian Rapoport. Starter Joe Flacco is on injured reserve with a torn ACL. Jimmy Clausen started the Ravens' last two games against the Seahawks and Chiefs.
Ryan Mallett expected to start for the Ravens as an audition for 2016
Baltimore is reportedly viewing this as a tryout for 2016.
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Mallett was waived by the Houston Texans on Oct. 27 after missing the team's charter flight to Miami for their matchup with the Dolphins in Week 7. He remained a free agent for several weeks, despite working out for the Ravens shortly after Flacco was placed on injured reserve.
Mallett has said he “acted immaturely” during his time with the Texans, and reports indicate that Mallett has worked through the personal issues that led to the Texans’ decision to part ways with him. According to Jamison Hensley of ESPN, the Ravens’ coaching staff has been impressed with Mallett’s dedication to learning the offense and his commitment to the team. He’s considered a frontrunner for the backup quarterback role in Baltimore next season.
This will be Mallett’s first action in Baltimore. In six games with the Texans this season, Mallett completed 78 of 147 passes for 770 yards, three touchdowns and four interceptions.
The team wants to see what Mallett has to offer as a backup quarterback candidate for 2016, and this is a good time to give him the opportunity. The Steelers are 9-5 on the season and currently hold the last wild card spot in the AFC, while the 4-10 Ravens are out of the playoff race and should be looking forward to the offseason.
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