In a strategic move following the injury to quarterback Aidan O’Connell, the Las Vegas Raiders have signed Desmond Ridder from the Arizona Cardinals’ practice squad. This decision marks a critical effort to bolster their quarterback lineup as they prepare for Week 8 of the NFL season. O’Connell’s injury—a fractured thumb sustained during a tough loss to the Los Angeles Rams—will see him sidelined for four to six weeks, according to team and league sources.
Desmond Ridder, a third-round draft pick out of Cincinnati in 2022, brings two seasons of experience with the Atlanta Falcons to the Raiders. During his time in Atlanta, he recorded 3,544 passing yards along with 14 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. Last season, Ridder started 13 games, completing 64.2% of his passes and contributing to the Falcons’ offense as they navigated a challenging season.
Ridder was traded to Arizona earlier this year in exchange for wide receiver Rondale Moore. After failing to secure a backup position against rookie Clayton Tune, he was released but quickly found a spot on the practice squad. His four-game absence from live action this season does raise questions about his readiness, but the Raiders urgently need his talent amidst their quarterback struggles.
Aidan O’Connell had just taken the starting role from Gardner Minshew, and in his short tenure, he accumulated 455 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions. Meanwhile, Minshew, who has been given significant resources and a $15 million guarantee this offseason, has accrued 1,168 passing yards but has faltered with eight turnovers. Despite his struggles, Minshew remains the primary starter for the Raiders, albeit under scrutiny for his performance.
The Raiders’ offensive woes extend beyond the quarterback position. Key players like wide receiver Jakobi Meyers have been sidelined due to injury, and Davante Adams was recently traded to the New York Jets after requesting a move. On a positive note, first-round draft pick tight end Brock Bowers has emerged as a vital component of the offense, leading the team with 47 receptions, 60 targets, and 477 receiving yards.
As of now, the Raiders rank 24th in points scored, 25th in total offense, and 30th in rushing efficiency, painting a picture of a struggling unit. Furthermore, they are tied for fifth in the league for the most sacks allowed and lead in interceptions, tallying 10 turnovers from their quarterbacks.
With O’Connell’s immediate future uncertain, Ridder’s arrival adds depth to a critical position. While there is ongoing speculation regarding whether Ridder could become a starter, or if the Raiders will expedite the development of rookie Carter Bradley from their practice squad, Ridder’s experience might provide a unique opportunity for the team as they strive to stabilize their offense amid challenges.
The Raiders are clearly tallying their options and will be looking to Ridder to bring new energy and skills to the squad as they navigate this challenging period.
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