Falcons encounter QB questions once more as Taylor Heinicke hurt

Field Level Media|published: Sun 12th November, 20:26 2023

Nov 12, 2023; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Taylor Heinicke (4) throws against the Arizona Cardinals during the first half at State Farm Stadium. credits: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

The Atlanta Falcons will be facing quarterback questions yet again after Taylor Heinicke exited Sunday's 25-23 loss to the host Arizona Cardinals with a hamstring injury.

Heinicke was just 8-of-15 passing for 55 yards and a touchdown before the injury early in the fourth quarter. He was hurt when he scrambled for an 8-yard gain and was hit by Zaven Collins.

Desmond Ridder, who began the season as Atlanta's starter, entered and guided the Falcons on a touchdown drive on their next possession. Ridder scored with his legs from 9 yards out, but his two-point conversion pass failed, making it 23-22.

The Cardinals then drove 70 yards in 11 plays for the game-winning field goal as time expired.

There was no update on Heinicke's injury immediately after the game. Atlanta (4-6) enters its bye week on a three-game losing streak.

It was Heinicke's second start since being given the job earlier this month. Ridder, before Sunday, had thrown for 1,701 yards with six touchdowns, six interceptions and seven fumbles this season.

"That's not really my decision," Ridder said when asked whether he may regain the starting role. "My job is to go in and be Taylor's backup and do what I can, and I think I did my job in that regard."

—Field Level Media