A New Chapter Begins: Desmond Ridder to Start for Raiders
The stage is set for another twist in the evolving journey of Desmond Ridder, as he prepares to take on the role of starting quarterback for the Las Vegas Raiders. This Monday night, Ridder will lead the Raiders against the Atlanta Falcons, the team that once saw potential in him during the 2022 NFL Draft.
From Draft Day to Now
Drafted by the Falcons in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft, Ridder's career has been a whirlwind filled with promise, pressure, and unpredictability. During his tenure with the Falcons, Ridder demonstrated glimpses of brilliance, starting in 17 games and posting a record of 8-9. His performance in the previous season included 13 starts, where he led his team to a 6-7 finish.
The offseason brought significant changes for the Falcons, who reshaped their quarterback dynamics by signing veteran Kirk Cousins and drafting Michael Penix Jr. Faced with a shifting lineup and strategic alterations, Ridder found himself moving on from the Falcons. In March, he was traded to the Arizona Cardinals, aiming for a fresh start.
A Rocky Path to Raiders' Starter
Ridder's time with the Cardinals was short-lived. He didn't find a long-term position with the team and was released at the end of training camp. Despite this setback, Ridder's potential did not go unnoticed, and the Las Vegas Raiders seized the opportunity to bring him into their ranks, signing him off the Cardinals' practice squad in late October.
Since joining the Raiders, Ridder has patiently awaited his chance to make a mark. Although he has appeared in four games, he has yet to start, completing 28 out of 44 passes. His completion rate stands at a respectable 63.6%, with 239 yards and one touchdown.
Injury Woes and Opportunity for Ridder
Ridder's opportunity to start arises as Aidan O'Connell, a key player for the Raiders, is listed as questionable due to a knee injury. At 25 years old and entering his third NFL season, Ridder's hunger for establishing himself in the league is palpable. His upcoming performance against the Falcons is not just a chance to shape his career but also an opportunity to prove his mettle against the team that initially believed in his promise.
Looking at the Falcons
Meanwhile, the Falcons are moving forward with Kirk Cousins and Michael Penix Jr. at the helm, continuing to craft their quarterback strategy for the foreseeable future. Ridder's departure marked a new direction for the Falcons, who are keen to optimize their performance with this new tandem of talent.
Ridder's journey thus far underscores the unpredictable and ever-changing nature of professional football. Monday's game will be a telling moment in his career, a chance to pivot his narrative and showcase his growth and potential on one of the sport's biggest stages. As Ridder steps onto the field, the spotlight will be on him, the action unfolding as fans and experts watch closely to see how this new chapter in his career unfolds.