Good news Atlanta Falcons announce a superstar return..

admin | February 4, 2024 | Atlanta Falcons | No Comments

Desmond Ridder replaces Marcus Mariota as the starting quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons, who have a 5-8 record but are still hoping to make the playoffs.

For the team’s Week 15 matchup against the New Orleans Saints, Desmond Ridder, a third-round rookie, will replace Marcus Mariota at quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons.

Due to Atlanta’s bye this week, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network said that the 23-year-old will have more practice time to get completely integrated into the offensive unit before the team’s next game on December 18.

Mariota, who was traded by the Los Angeles Raiders to the Falcons prior to the season, has been far too erratic with the ball, which has led to the team’s overall 5-8 record. His completion rate, passing touchdowns, and passing yards are among the lowest in the league. In terms of interceptions (nine), he is tied for fifth.

“It’s difficult to describe my mental state,” Mariota remarked following the Pittsburgh Steelers’ 19-16 victory on Sunday. I’m still attempting to think back on the match. I’m not really thinking about it right now, but ultimately, they have to decide what’s best for the team, so whatever happens happens.

Mariota, who joined the Falcons for the first time after playing as a backup for the Las Vegas Silverbacks for two years, will not be starting from the bench, according to head coach Arthur Smith.

It’s a special moment, Smith remarked. “We’re going to enter the bye,” Everything will be assessed. Every position is available.

He continued, “Like I said, everything is on the table,” following the team’s second consecutive defeat. “We have to go now; it’s late.” A quarter of the season remains. This week, we’ll visit and have a staff discussion. As I mentioned earlier, all options are available.

The Falcons are obviously making every effort to secure a postseason trip.

Atlanta would probably need to win both of its remaining divisional games in order to win the NFC South, even if they are still technically eligible to make the postseason. The team plays the division-leading Tampa Bay Buccaneers in their last regular season game.

April draft pick Ridder guided the Cincinnati Bearcats to the NCAA playoffs the previous year. He hasn’t yet played in the NFL.

The way the Falcons approach the upcoming offseason will be greatly influenced by the 23-year-old’s performances. In order to decide whether to hire players from outside the organization or not, Atlanta is presently preparing to select the 10th overall choice in the upcoming draft. Resolving the team’s quarterback problems will be crucial in determining this.

Another running back has been added by the Falcons. On Monday, the organization announced that Godwin Igwebuike had been added to the roster.

Since 2018, he has been on and off multiple NFL clubs, logging 21 carries for 122 yards and one touchdown.

Why Atlanta Falcons Believe in Desmond Ridder as Starting QB - And Think 'Best Football is Ahead' - Sports Illustrated Atlanta Falcons News, Analysis and More

Earning a spot in his position group this year will be difficult because most of the carries in 2023 are expected to go to Bijan Robinson, Tyler Allgeier, and Cordarrelle Patterson. As an undrafted free agent, Carlos Washington has also made a good impact so far.

As a run-heavy team that makes use of all available rushers, Igwebuike’s true competition may turn out to be for a position on the practice squad, but even that might be highly sought after.

In keeping with that, kicker Matthew Trickett was also discharged.

The Falcons practice in full pads for the first time on Monday after taking a day off on Sunday.