Desmond Ridder Settling in as Atlanta Falcons’ Starting Quarterback
Desmond Ridder, the starting quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons, is feeling more comfortable and confident as he heads into his second season with the team. After taking over as the starter for the final four games of the 2022 season, Ridder impressed with his performance, completing 63.5% of his passes and throwing for two touchdowns. Most notably, he did not throw a single interception in those games.
For Ridder, those four games were crucial in gaining experience and adjusting to the speed and demands of professional football. It allowed him to understand what he needed to work on and how to approach the offseason differently. Ridder has always believed in his abilities as a starting quarterback, and now he has the opportunity to prove it.
During the offseason, Ridder focused on improving his efficiency both on and off the field. He realized that he didn’t need to spend countless hours studying and practicing to accomplish everything. Instead, he adopted a smarter approach, getting up early, knocking out his tasks, and then going to work. This change in strategy has helped him become more focused and productive.
Ridder’s dedication to improvement is evident in his daily routine. He identifies one aspect of his game to work on each day, whether it’s studying his teammates’ roles or perfecting his footwork and decision-making. He is constantly striving to be better and make the right reads on the field.
The Falcons coaching staff has noticed Ridder’s growth and development. Head coach Arthur Smith praised Ridder’s daily improvements and his ability to anticipate plays before they happen. Smith compared Ridder’s anticipation to that of a skilled point guard in basketball who can see plays develop before anyone else. This level of anticipation gives the team hope for Ridder’s future success.
Offensive coordinator Dave Ragone also commended Ridder for his understanding of the game and the thoughtful questions he asks during meetings. Ridder’s ability to grasp the information and apply it on the field is a promising sign for his development as a quarterback.
The Falcons have tailored their offense to Ridder’s strengths and abilities. They have given him a lot to handle and are excited to see how he performs in the upcoming season. Atlanta had a plan for Ridder from the moment they drafted him, ensuring that he was ready to take on the starting role before thrusting him into action. This approach has built Ridder’s confidence and prepared him for the challenges ahead.
As Ridder enters his second season as the Falcons’ starting quarterback, he is feeling more comfortable and confident than ever before. He has learned from his experiences and made the necessary adjustments to improve his game. With a supportive coaching staff and a team that believes in him, Ridder is poised for success in the upcoming season.
In conclusion, Desmond Ridder’s journey from backup to starting quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons has been one of growth and determination. Through hard work and dedication, Ridder has proven himself capable of leading the team on the field. As he continues to settle into his role, Ridder’s confidence and comfort will only continue to grow, making him a formidable force in the NFL.