The Baltimore Ravens are navigating a major change at quarterback, but Derrick Henry believes adding Jacoby Brissett gives the offense an experienced veteran who understands what it takes to lead an NFL team. With Lamar Jackson sidelined, Brissett has an opportunity to get comfortable in Baltimore and help the Ravens move forward.
Henry is familiar with Brissett's career, as the two entered the NFL in the same draft class. Now in their 11th seasons, the veterans share an understanding of what it takes to prepare for the league's demands. Speaking with reporters ahead of Monday night's matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers, Henry welcomed Brissett's arrival and emphasized that the team is doing what it can to help him get acclimated.
"We obviously
got [Jacoby Brissett] so he can help us. We're all just trying to help him get acclimated. He's a pro. We were in the same draft class and in Year 11 [in the NFL]. He knows how to come in and approach it every day. [He knows how to] step in and lead. That's what he's done throughout his career, so we're excited to have him."
Brissett's experience is one thing, but Henry has also noticed the way the quarterback has carried himself since joining the organization. Learning a new offense in a short period can be difficult, especially with the circumstances surrounding Jackson's injury, but Henry believes Brissett has approached the opportunity with the right mindset.
"[Jacoby Brissett]'s just calm. I mean, like I said, he's in Year 11, so he knows how it goes and he's just ready to work."
Henry also pointed to Brissett's willingness to put in the work and learn as quickly as possible. The running back isn't expecting anything more than that from the veteran quarterback as the team prepares for Monday night.
"[Jacoby Brissett]'s just coming to work every day and doing the best he can. That's all you can ever ask for. [He's] trying to learn as quickly as he can, get acclimated, and [we] just [have to] go out there and put it on display on Monday."
While Brissett's arrival gives Baltimore another option, the Ravens are still hoping Jackson can return after completing his recovery and rehabilitation. Henry made it clear that the organization isn't rushing that process.
"We just want Lamar [Jackson] to heal and rehab, and when he's ready to come back, he'll be ready."
Brissett’s experience gives Baltimore a starting point, but the offense still has to build the timing that comes with playing together. Protection calls, exchanges with Henry, and communication with receivers will all matter as the Ravens introduce another quarterback. Keeping the offense out of long-yardage situations would help Brissett make that transition without requiring him to carry the unit immediately.
This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Ravens' Derrick Henry praises Jacoby Brissett ahead of first start
