Overview

• Lamar Jackson is ruled out with a hamstring strain and is expected to miss roughly two to three weeks, clearing the way for Cooper Rush to start Sunday in Houston.
• Rush took a full week of first‑team practice reps and said the assignment feels familiar after multiple relief stints in Dallas.
• John Harbaugh set the quarterback depth chart for Week 5 with Rush as the starter and Tyler Huntley next up.
• Coaches and teammates praised Rush’s command and preparation, noting his 9–5 career record as a starter and reputation for ball security.
• Analysts caution that Baltimore’s leaky defense and protection issues have been the larger headwinds for a 1–3 team, potentially limiting what a competent backup can deliver.