Atlanta Falcons’ quarterback Desmond Ridder received a vote of confidence from team owner Arthur Blank, who expressed his belief in Ridder as the future of the position within the franchise. This statement came as comforting news for Ridder, who is entering his first full season as the starting quarterback. After replacing Marcus Mariota for the final four games of last season, Ridder is eager to prove himself further and exceed the expectations placed upon him by the organization.
In his limited playing time last season, Ridder showcased his potential by completing 73 of 115 passes for 708 yards, with two touchdowns and zero interceptions. The Falcons solidified Ridder’s position as the starter by signing Taylor Heinicke as his backup during free agency. With this show of confidence from his teammates and ownership, Ridder has a renewed determination to excel on the field.
The Falcons’ general manager, Terry Fontenot, expressed his enthusiasm for Ridder, highlighting how the young quarterback adapted to being the starter in an offense that was not specifically tailored to his skill set. Falcons coach Arthur Smith commended Ridder’s performance in critical situations during his four starts. Fontenot admires Ridder’s resilience and his ability to respond to adversity both on and off the field, showcasing maturity beyond his years.
The Falcons organization has a process-oriented mindset, focusing on continuous improvement rather than immediate outcomes. Fontenot emphasized Ridder’s dedication to self-improvement during the offseason, praising his work ethic and commitment to honing his skills in all areas. Ridder’s strong offseason sets a positive foundation for the upcoming season, and the Falcons are eager to witness his growth and development as a quarterback.
Ridder expressed that hearing Blank and Fontenot vouch for him holds a special significance. Their endorsement carries additional weight because they are decision-makers within the organization. Ridder’s leadership qualities shone through during the offseason, as he organized off-site throwing sessions with the team’s pass-catchers in the Atlanta area. These sessions were a testament to his dedication and determination to establish strong chemistry with his teammates, setting a solid foundation for success.
As the Falcons gear up for their season opener against Carolina, Ridder’s optimism and determination are at an all-time high. With the unwavering support from the organization, Ridder is poised to lead the team to victory. His ability to handle pressure situations, as witnessed in critical moments during his starts, has instilled confidence in the coaching staff and his teammates. Ridder’s maturity and drive for excellence make him a strong candidate to carry the Falcons into a promising future.
Desmond Ridder’s journey as the starting quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons is marked by the unwavering faith and support of the organization. From Arthur Blank’s endorsement to Terry Fontenot’s belief in his growth and development, Ridder is poised to prove himself as a capable and exceptional leader. With his relentless pursuit of improvement and dedication to his craft, Ridder is positioning himself as a force to be reckoned with in the NFL. The future looks bright for both Ridder and the Falcons as they embark on this season and beyond.
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