With the 74th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, the Atlanta Falcons draft Desmond Ridder, quarterback out of Cincinnati. Surprisingly, Ridder is only the second quarterback off the board after none went in the second round. The Falcons’ patience paid off, drafting a solid quarterback. Let’s take a closer look at Desmond Ridder.
Desmond Ridder Highlights
Falcons Draft Desmond Ridder | 2022 NFL Draft Profile
Desmond Ridder
Position: Quarterback
Height: 6’3″
Weight: 211 lbs
Age: 22
College: Cincinnati Bearcats
Desmond Ridder Draft Profile
Strengths
Desmond Ridder is a four-year starter for the Cincinnati Bearcats and has matured as a quarterback over the last two seasons. He is a field general that plays in rhythm and processes plays quickly. Ridder is generally accurate and can do some damage with his legs if needed, but he prefers to work within the pocket. Over his four seasons with Cincinnati, his mechanics and footwork have become automatic and clean.
Weaknesses
Despite being a 6’3″ quarterback with great mechanics, the arm strength is lacking. Ridder will likely struggle to find receivers in tight windows and will have to improve on his deep ball to avoid opposing secondaries, specifically safeties, from making big plays. He is able to abandon the pocket if needed, but Ridder lacks elusiveness and that escapability many NFL quarterbacks exhibit.
RELATED | Full Desmond Ridder NFL Draft Profile and Highlights
Desmond Ridder Stats 2021 | Cincinnati
| G | Pass YDs | Pass TDs | INTs | Rush YDs | Rush TDs |
| 14 | 3,334 | 30 | 8 | 355 | 6 |
What to Expect From Desmond Ridder in 2022
This couldn’t have gone better for the Atlanta Falcons. They were able to draft the second quarterback in the NFL Draft, meaning they had the ability to choose the player they wanted. They also were able to do it in the third round. Not only does this mean Desmond Ridder, and the other quarterbacks, dropped, but it means the rookie contract will also be less expensive.
In terms of what to expect from Desmond Ridder this season, ideally not much. Marcus Mariota was brought in to be the starter, and he will be a great player and leader for Ridder to watch and learn from. Soak up the knowledge in his rookie year, then the Falcons can see where he is next offseason.
