Report: Falcons turn back to Desmond Ridder as QB1

Field Level Media|published: Sun 19th November, 10:32 2023

Oct 29, 2023; Nashville, Tennessee, USA;Atlanta Falcons quarterback Desmond Ridder (9) looks down field against the Tennessee Titans during the first half at Nissan Stadium. credits: Steve Roberts-USA TODAY Sports

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Desmond Ridder is expected to return to the starting role when the team returns from its bye this week, NFL Network reported on Sunday.

Ridder started the Falcons' first eight games of the season before being evaluated for a concussion during a game against the Tennessee Titans on Oct. 29. Taylor Heinicke entered that game and started the past two for Atlanta (4-6), which returns to face the visiting New Orleans Saints on Nov. 26.

Ridder relieved Heinicke when he sustained a hamstring injury in the second half of the Falcons' 25-23 loss to the Arizona Cardinals last Sunday.

Ridder, 24, has completed 65.4 of his passes for 1,740 yards with six touchdowns and six interceptions in nine games this season. He was selected by Atlanta in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft.

Heinicke, 30, completed 55.4 percent of his passes for 498 yards with three touchdowns and one pick in parts of three games this season.

—Field Level Media