Is the newly signed Desmond Ridder an upgrade for the Las Vegas Raiders, given the current low bar for quarterback standards? That’s where we are at, Raider Nation.
After Gardner Minshew turned the ball over relentlessly last week, the Raiders are desperate for options. Subsequently, Desmond Ridder was patiently waiting for another opportunity on the Cardinals practice squad. Ridder is still very young and can blossom into being worth a third-round pick.
Ridder has familiarity with this roster as both him and Tre Tucker were teammates at the University of Cincinnati. Will the duo be able to rekindle their connection in Las Vegas? Surprisingly Tucker has not been able to have a ton of volume and success this season.
Raiders signing QB Desmond Ridder off Arizona’s practice squad. (via @TomPelissero) pic.twitter.com/O8PmuE9FUF
— NFL (@NFL) October 21, 2024
Desmond Ridder Early Struggles
The Atlanta Falcons selected Ridder in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft. Despite his late draft position, the Falcons selected him as the second quarterback this year. In his rookie season, Ridder only played in four games and passed for two touchdowns.
In his second season, he demonstrated his full capabilities when given the reins. The same reason fans are disappointed in Minshew is the same reason fans are in Ridder. Turnovers and more turnovers. During this season, he totaled 12 interceptions. Comparatively, he did post 2,836 passing yards and 12 total touchdowns as well.
Instead of continuing to have no confidence in the offense, this week will hopefully be a different story. This offense sorely needs a fresh spark, and the former Cincinnati quarterback should provide it.
Coincidentally, even if he cannot start this week due to a lack of knowledge in the playbook, the following week should be more enticing. Raiders head to familiar territory for Ridder as they face off against the Cincinnati Bengals.
Ridder Draft Profile
According to his original NFL draft profile, he was poised to be a quality starter at one point. Furthermore, he has amazing athletic ability at the quarterback position but chooses to be a pocket passer. However, he does not possess great arm talent because he lacks power and deep ball accuracy. Probably the greatest attribute that will be useful for the Raiders is his ability to decipher a defense.
Hopefully open receivers will receive targets and fewer sacks are taken. This Raiders offense desperately needs a shot in the arm.
*Top Photo: Getty Images
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