The Desmond Ridder chapter with the Green Bay Packers came to a close on May 4, 2026, when the team officially released the former Atlanta Falcons quarterback. This move, confirmed by NFL Network's Tom Pelissero and widely reported that day, signals another turning point in Ridder's NFL journey since being drafted in 2022.
For Falcons fans, Ridder evokes mixed emotions. Drafted in the third round (74th overall) of the 2022 NFL Draft by Atlanta, Ridder was seen as a promising developmental quarterback with athleticism and potential to lead the franchise. However, his time under center proved inconsistent, ultimately culminating in his trade away from the Falcons in March 2024.
Ridder's Time with the Falcons: Promise and Challenges
Desmond Ridder's Falcons tenure can be characterized by an initial rise followed by a rapid decline. After spending the majority of his rookie season as a backup behind veteran Marcus Mariota, Ridder finally earned a start in Week 15 of 2022 against the New Orleans Saints. In that debut, he completed 13 of 26 passes for 169 yards and two touchdowns, showing flashes of potential.
The 2023 season offered Ridder the starting role from the outset, with head coach Arthur Smith endorsing him as the franchise quarterback. Early in the season, Ridder's record was 3-2, highlighted by a notable comeback victory over the Green Bay Packers -- ironically the team that would later release him -- where he passed for 238 yards and one touchdown, adding a rushing score.
Unfortunately, inconsistency plagued Ridder. He committed costly turnovers, including fumbles and interceptions at critical junctures, eroding the coaches' confidence. His struggles culminated in a three-interception game against the Washington Commanders in October 2023, after which he was benched in favor of Taylor Heinicke. The new Falcons regime, with Kevin Stefanski as head coach and Ian Cunningham as general manager, quickly pivoted to pursue a new quarterback solution.
By the end of his Falcons stint, Ridder had compiled a 6-7 record as a starter, throwing for 3,544 yards, 14 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions with a completion percentage of 64.2%. On the ground, he added 460 rushing yards and five touchdowns. These statistics, however, masked underlying issues related to decision-making and ball security.
Why a Return to Atlanta is Unlikely
When Ridder was traded to the Arizona Cardinals in March 2024 in exchange for wide receiver Rondale Moore, many speculated about whether he might one day return to Atlanta. As it stands in May 2026, the Falcons' quarterback room leaves virtually no opening for such a reunion.
Atlanta's current quarterback roster features:
- Michael Penix Jr. (starter and 2024 first-round pick)
- Trevor Siemian (veteran backup)
- Tua Tagovailoa (experienced backup signed by the Falcons)
- Jack Strand (developmental prospect)
This group is firmly established with Penix Jr. as the clear franchise leader. The Falcons gave significant draft capital and organizational support to Penix, signaling their commitment to him as their quarterback of the future. Tagovailoa's addition offers a reliable veteran presence, while Siemian and Strand provide depth.
Given this structure, bringing Ridder back would make him the unlikely fourth option at best. This depth chart is built to compete, not cycle through developmental quarterbacks who have struggled to secure starting roles. Ridder's release by the Packers further underscores that Atlanta sees him as surplus to their current and future needs.
The Packers' Decision Sends a Message
The Packers' release of Ridder after signing veteran Tyrod Taylor to the roster is significant. Green Bay, a franchise known for developing quarterbacks like Aaron Rodgers and Jordan Love, believed Ridder deserved an opportunity when they signed him to the practice squad on December 31, 2025, later promoting him to the active roster on January 6, 2026. However, the decision to release him less than five months later indicates they did not view him as part of their long-term plans.
For Falcons fans, this signals that Ridder's challenges are likely fundamental rather than situational. The erratic turnovers and inconsistent play that hindered him in Atlanta persisted despite a fresh start in Green Bay's system. This development closes the door on any lingering "what if" scenarios regarding his potential resurgence.
The Legacy and Future: Atlanta Moving Forward
Desmond Ridder's Falcons tenure was a pivotal learning experience for the franchise. His struggles exposed the need for a more dependable and polished quarterback, prompting the front office to invest aggressively in drafting Michael Penix Jr. The Falcons under Stefanski and Cunningham have clearly identified the quarterback position as a cornerstone for their rebuild, with Penix as their foundation.
While Ridder's NFL career is not over -- he remains only 26 and has shown the physical tools to contribute as a backup -- the path ahead is uncertain. He is expected to clear waivers and seek opportunities elsewhere, likely on a practice squad or as a depth option.
Atlanta fans should understand that Ridder's departure represents growth and progress rather than failure. The Falcons have transformed their quarterback room from uncertainty to stability. The focus is now on executing with Penix Jr. and supporting him with a strong roster.
Conclusion
Desmond Ridder's release from the Green Bay Packers on May 4, 2026, marks the definitive end of his chapter with the Atlanta Falcons. Although once heralded as the franchise's quarterback of the future, his career in Atlanta was a turbulent ride of promise dashed by inconsistency.
The Falcons have clear direction at quarterback with Michael Penix Jr., Tua Tagovailoa, and Trevor Siemian forming a solid and reliable core. Ridder's return to Atlanta is not in the cards given the current roster and the team's aspirations.
For Falcons fans, this news provides closure. The focus remains firmly on the present and future, as the Falcons aim to build a competitive team around their new quarterback foundation.
Desmond Ridder's story is a reminder of the challenges inherent in NFL quarterback development and the importance of organizational clarity in building for sustained success. The Falcons have spoken -- their future is Penix, not Ridder.
Author's Note: This article has been fact-checked to reflect the latest roster and coaching staff data as of May 2026.
