The Atlanta Falcons face a significant quarterback decision amid uncertainty surrounding Desmond Ridder’s status.
The team’s quarterback situation has posed challenges for nearly five years, and it’s evident that Ridder is not the solution for the struggling franchise.
The Atlanta Falcons find themselves in the midst of a tumultuous season, acknowledging an uncomfortable reality about their quarterback, Desmond Ridder. It has become evident that Ridder, facing his second benching of the season, does not embody the qualities of a franchise quarterback, setting the stage for a potentially chaotic trajectory for the team.
Since the decline in Matt Ryan’s performance nearly five years ago, the Falcons have grappled with instability in the quarterback position. Neither Marcus Mariota nor Ridder has successfully solidified their claim to the starting spot over the past two years, adding to the team’s ongoing struggles.
Following the abandonment of Mariota late last season, head coach Arthur Smith and the Falcons’ front office opted to invest their trust in the 2022 third-round pick, Ridder. However, this decision was met with skepticism, and as many anticipated, the current season has proven challenging for the 24-year-old quarterback.
Ridder’s stat line of 10 touchdowns, 10 interceptions, and 11 fumbles in 13 games reflects the difficulties he has encountered. His initial benching during the October loss to the Tennessee Titans saw Taylor Heinicke step in as the replacement. Heinicke, a former starter for the Washington Commanders, took the reins for the subsequent two games before succumbing to an injury, paving the way for Ridder’s return.
However, Ridder failed to capitalize on his second chance, reaching a low point in Sunday’s demoralizing defeat to NFC South rivals, the Carolina Panthers, with a particularly ill-timed interception in the red zone late in the fourth quarter. This setback dealt a severe blow to Atlanta’s postseason aspirations. With Heinicke named the starter for the upcoming game against the Indianapolis Colts, it appears Ridder’s opportunity to secure the starting position has come to an end.
As the Falcons coaching staff, led by Smith and his assistants, grapple with a potential third consecutive losing season under their tenure, there is a pressing need to reevaluate their strategy during the offseason. This reassessment is contingent upon owner Arthur Blank providing them another chance. Regardless, a revamped plan for the quarterback position is imperative.
The Falcons face limitations in their choices. A middling season position means they are likely to pick in the middle of the first round in the upcoming April draft, missing out on top talents like Caleb Williams and Drake Maye. While potential prospects like Heisman Trophy winner Jayden Daniels may be available, doubts linger regarding their readiness for the challenges of the NFL. The offseason poses a critical juncture for the Falcons as they navigate the complexities of quarterback selection and strive to reshape their trajectory for future success.
