The Atlanta Falcons’ quarterback situation has been a source of concern for the better part of a decade, and it is evident that Desmond Ridder is not the solution for the faltering team.
The Atlanta Falcons are facing a turbulent season after recognizing the inconvenient truth about Desmond Ridder, as it has been plainly evident that Ridder is not a franchise quarterback as he is benched for the second time this season.
Since Matt Ryan’s performance began to deteriorate nearly five years ago, the Falcons have struggled at quarterback. In the last two years, neither Marcus Mariota nor Ridder have been able to establish themselves as starters.
After giving up on Mariota late last season, head coach Arthur Smith and the Falcons’ front office decided to placing their trust in 2022 third-round pick Ridder. However, this move was met with scepticism, and as many predicted, this season has been tough for the 24-year-old.
Ridder has thrown 10 touchdowns and 10 interceptions in 13 games, along with 11 fumbles. He was benched during October’s loss to the Tennessee Titans and replaced by Taylor Heinicke. Heinicke, a former starter for the Washington Commanders, started the next two games before getting injured, which allowed Ridder to reclaim his starting role.
Ridder missed his second chance, though, with the lowest point of his season coming in Sunday’s crushing defeat to 2-12 NFC South rivals, the Carolina Panthers. It dealt a serious blow to Atlanta’s hopes of reaching the postseason. Ridder made a terribly-timed interception in the redzone late in the fourth quarter when the Falcons were leading 7-6 at Bank of America Stadium.
Panthers QB Bryce Young led his team on a game-winning drive, with Eddy Pineiro kicking the winning field goal as time ran out. This moment likely marks the end of Ridder’s chance to secure his place as the starter, with Heinicke named the starter for Sunday’s game against the Indianapolis Colts.
The Falcons’ coaching staff, including Smith and his assistants, need to rethink their strategy during the offseason, provided owner Arthur Blank gives them another chance as they face a third consecutive losing season since taking over. Regardless, a new plan will have to be made for the quarterback position.
The Falcons’ choices will be limited. A middling season means they’ll likely pick in the middle of the first round in April’s draft, long after top talents Caleb Williams and Drake Maye have been snapped up. They might be able to get their hands on Heisman Trophy winner Jayden Daniels or other prospects on draft night, but there are doubts about their readiness for the big league.
They could also look at trades, but with not much to offer besides draft capital, the Falcons may find themselves in a tough spot during negotiations.
Chicago Bears’ Justin Fields could be a possible target, especially as the Bears are set to pick first overall in April due to the Young trade with the Panthers. Despite Fields’ less-than-stellar performances, he could fit well with the Falcons’ run-heavy offence. But getting him won’t be cheap.
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