Falcons Defensive Lineman Calais Campbell: Desmond Ridder Keeps Developing 'Wouldn't Be Surprised If We're Playing Late In January'

CINCINNATI — Desmond Ridder is the Atlanta Falcons' starting quarterback next season, and one of the team's newest additions thinks he can lead the franchise to the playoffs already.

Defensive tackle Calais Campbell is a Ridder believer.

"If Ridder continues to develop and be who I think he can be," Campbell told the team website. "I wouldn't be surprised if we're playing late in January and potentially February."

Ridder still has plenty to prove in the NFL after going 2-2 last season against opponents largely fielding backups in the final weeks of the season.

Ridder completed 63.5% of his passes over that final month for 708 yards, 2 touchdowns, and no interceptions.

He also fumbled 3 times, losing 2 of them. Still, the Bearcats legend has improved his craft every year over the past half-decade and is one of many Falcons that could take a leap in 2023.

"This is a team that's up and coming, that has great potential," Campbell said. "I'm really excited about it. I feel like the team is young and poised and I think I can bring my leadership skills to try to get the guys really locked in and really focused. I feel like we can really do some damage together."

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