Falcons' Desmond Ridder 'Reason for Optimism?'
There's a lot of buzz surrounding the Atlanta Falcons coming into the season, especially considering the team has a realistic chance of ending a six-year postseason drought.
A lot of that potential comes on quarterback Desmond Ridder's shoulders. The second-year pro brings a lot of question marks coming into the season, but his growth from his play last year gives reason for optimism.
"Ridder showed promise while starting the final four games of the season, went 2-2 as the starter and posted a respectable 86.4 passer rating," Bleacher Report writes. "He'll now operate with an incredible supporting cast. His offensive options will include Drake London, Kyle Pitts, Tyler Allgeier, Jonnu Smith, Cordarrelle Patterson, Mack Hollins, Scott Miller and rookie do-it-all star Bijan Robinson."
Despite his numbers not particularly jumping out (708 passing yards, two touchdowns and a 2-2 record), Ridder did possess the league's 10th best PFF grade over the final two weeks.
At the end of the day, the NFL is a quarterback's league. Quarterbacks come in all shapes and sizes and there isn't a specific archetype that is needed to win in the league ... except for a good one.
Mistakes can be hidden easier at other positions, but if Ridder doesn't play well, the Falcons simply won't succeed.
However, Ridder's progression should give the team hope that he will only continue to grow.
You can follow Jeremy Brener on Twitter @JeremyBrener.
Want the latest in breaking news and insider information on the Falcons? Click Here.
Follow Falcon Report on Twitter.
Want even more Atlanta Falcons news? Check out the SI.com team page here
