Skyler Bell, Joe Fagnano, Chris Freeman make their NFL debut

After week one of the NFL preseason, the UConn Huskies represented Connecticut well in their NFL debuts.

In the Baltimore Ravens’ 24-7 win over the Philadelphia Eagles, quarterback Tyler Huntley started the game, followed by former UConn gunslinger Joe Fagnano. The 25-year-old entered the match late in the first quarter and exited with just over five minutes remaining in the outing. With 9:25 left in the first half, the Pennsylvania native connected with fellow rookie wide receiver Ja’Kobi Lane on a 16-yard touchdown pass.

Overall, Fagnano completed 22 of 28 (78.6%) passes for a touchdown and an interception. In two and a half quarters, the rookie led the Ravens to three scoring drives and led all NFL quarterbacks with 224 passing yards.

“I’m trying to take advantage of the opportunities that I’m given,” Fagnano said.

Heading down south, former UConn kicker Chris Freeman took the field in the Houston Texans’ 27-7 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers. On the team’s opening drive, Freeman booted an extra point, giving the Texans a 7-3 lead.

Following the franchise’s loss, the Texans signed former UConn tight end Louis Hansen on Sunday. Similar to Freeman, Hansen received an invitation to work out at the squad’s two-day minicamp. Now, the Massachusetts native will get the opportunity to make a name for himself. In three years with Connecticut, Hansen posted 46 receptions for 463 yards and four touchdowns.

As for Skyler Bell, the Buffalo Bills delayed his NFL debut due to a lower back injury and could return to action as soon as next weekend versus the Cleveland Browns.