FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — The Atlanta Falcons will have more on the line than retaining hope in the weak NFC South race when rookie quarterback Desmond Ridder makes his debut as the starter.
Sunday’s road game against the New Orleans Saints, Atlanta’s top rival, will also be the beginning of a four-week audition for Ridder that could help determine the Falcons’ long-term plan at quarterback.
Ridder was named the starter by coach Arthur Smith on Monday. On Wednesday, the Falcons lost their only experienced quarterback when they announced that former starter Marcus Mariota was placed on injured reserve and will have knee surgery.
With Mariota out of the picture, the Falcons must be patient with Ridder in the final four games. The team’s only other options at quarterback are Logan Woodside, who was signed off the Tennessee Titans’ practice squad on Monday, and Feleipe Franks, who this year became primarily a tight end.
Ridder will be playing to secure the inside track on the starting job in 2023.