Ridder Readies for First Start as a Raider
As the Las Vegas Raiders prepare to face off against the Atlanta Falcons on Monday night, all eyes will be on Desmond Ridder. The young quarterback is set to make his inaugural start for the Raiders, a significant moment in his tumultuous NFL career.
A Roller-Coaster Career
Ridder's journey in the NFL has been nothing short of eventful. Originally drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft, Ridder quickly showcased his potential. He started 17 games for the Falcons, finishing with a record of 8-9. Last season alone, he had a 6-7 record over 13 starts. Yet for Ridder, the NFL road has been full of unexpected turns.
The Falcons, looking to fortify their quarterback position and ensure depth, brought in veteran Kirk Cousins and drafted promising newcomer Michael Penix Jr. this offseason. These strategic moves inevitably led to Ridder's departure, with Atlanta trading him to the Arizona Cardinals this past March. However, Ridder's stint with the Cardinals was short-lived; he was released at the end of training camp, marking another setback in his young career.
Raiders Offer a New Chapter
In a pivotal career move, the Raiders signed Ridder off the Cardinals' practice squad in late October. Though Ridder has seen limited action on the field since joining the team, appearing in four games, his performances have shown promise. With a completion rate of 63.6%, Ridder has completed 28 of 44 passes for 239 yards and one touchdown.
With the uncertainty surrounding Aidan O'Connell, who is listed as questionable due to a knee injury, Ridder's opportunity to lead the Raiders’ offensive unit has finally arrived. At 25 years old and entering his third NFL year, Ridder's blend of youth and experience positions him well for this critical start.
Facing His Former Team
The narrative is rich as Ridder prepares to lead the Raiders against his former team, the Falcons. While this matchup has layers of personal significance for Ridder, it also presents a professional challenge. The Falcons, with Cousins and rookie prospect Penix Jr. now in their quarterback roster, stand as a testament to the competitive nature of the NFL, where opportunities and allegiances can shift rapidly.
Looking Ahead
The upcoming game is not just about Ridder’s performance; it's a test for both teams. The Raiders, hosting at their home turf, will want to capitalize on familiar surroundings to secure a win. Meanwhile, the Falcons, transitioning under new quarterbacks, will aim to demonstrate their adaptability and strategic depth.
For Ridder, this match is an opportunity to affirm his place in the league, moving beyond past transitions and focusing on future contributions. He embodies the never-give-up spirit of the sport, navigating the complexities of team dynamics and personal career paths.
As the Raiders and Falcons prepare to battle, Ridder remains a focal point of intrigue. His ability to rise to the challenge will not only define the outcome of the game but could also chart the course for his future within the Raiders’ franchise and the broader NFL landscape.