After their loss on Sunday against the Steelers, Arthur Smith had hinted that a change was possible at the Falcons quarterback position. It may seem late, but it’s done. Exit Marcus Mariota, it is now the rookie Desmond Ridder who will lead the Atlanta attack, as revealed by Ian Rapoport of NFL Media.
In 13 games, Mariota has a record of 5 wins and 8 losses, and threw for 2,219 yards at 61.3%, for 15 touchdowns and 9 interceptions. He also ran for 438 yards and scored 4 rushing touchdowns.
The new holder, Desmond Ridder, was drafted this year in the third round by Atlanta upon leaving the University of Cincinnati, with which he had a magnificent season last year.
The rookie’s performance will be scrutinized by the Georgian franchise, which is one of the teams that could potentially select a quarterback in the next draft. If Ridder wants to settle down permanently, he might only have four games to do so. His first start will be against the Saints in 10 days, with the Falcons resting this weekend.
