Congratulations are in order for UConn Huskies alum Joe Fagnano, who is set to be active for his first NFL game on Sunday night as the Baltimore Ravens take on the Atlanta Falcons.

Look, you never want to get your opportunity because of someone else's misfortune, but that's reality in the NFL. Lamar Jackson, the starting quarterback for the Ravens, is out with an ankle injury. That elevates Tyler Huntley into the starting role and Fagnano into the backup role.

Now, Fagnano is just one play away from getting his first NFL snaps. Again, you hope nothing happens to Huntley, but that's reality. You are always one play away.

Fagnano spent seven seasons in college (2019-25), taking full advantage of previously-allowed redshirt years and COVID exemptions. He played four years at the University of Maine and then spent three years at UConn, serving as the starter in 2024 and 2025. Last season, he completed 69 percent of his passes for 3,448 yards. He had 28 touchdowns against just one interception and a passer rating of 161.0. 

UConn went 9-3 in the 2025 regular season and earned a spot in the Fenway Bowl, which it lost to Army. He did not play in that bowl game. The Huskies finished 9-4 under former head coach Jim Mora, who is now at Colorado State.

Fagnano paired with All-American wide receiver Skyler Bell and dynamic running back Cam Edwards to create a three-headed monster on offense. Bell is now playing for the Buffalo Bills. Edwards is a running back at Michigan State after transferring out of Storrs.

Fagnano went undrafted in the NFL Draft, but signed with the Ravens in the offseason. He performed excellently in the preseason, leading the league in completions (56) and passing yards (509). He threw three touchdowns vs. just one interception and only took one sack

Should he have to play, he certainly has the ability to throw the ball. He also has the age and experience to be relied upon should the Ravens need him.

The Ravens are 3-1 and tied with the Cleveland Browns atop the AFC North.

UConn entered play on Saturday at 2-3 overall heading into the afternoon contest with Temple in Philadelphia.

HuskiesRoundtable will have all the coverage you need following the conclusion of the contest with the Owls, who play in the American Conference.