Desmond Ridder brought a relatively unknown school in Cincinnati to CFP contention. His combination of arm strength, processing, and mobility provide an intriguing short-term option for teams looking for their signal caller of the future. The issue is whether Ridder can be a franchise quarterback. Let's dive into the tape and see if the Bearcat is really worth the hype.
Biography
Name: Desmond Ridder
Position: Quarterback
Height: 6'3
Weight: 211
Age: 22.6
Class: RS Senior
School: Cincinnati
For those of you who are new to the 'In a Nutshell' series, this is a summarized scouting report to give you everything you need to know "in a nutshell."
The Good
Simply put, Ridder has a strong arm, solid athleticism, and great leadership. Cincinnati had a pro-style offense, unlike many offenses of other quarterback prospects this draft. Therefore, Ridder is arguably most ready day one. If he is pushed out of structure, Ridder can also have top-tier production.
The Bad
While most say Ridder has a great processor, I tend to differ. There were many instances of forced passes that should never be thrown. Timing also has been a problem, but a minor one.
The Ugly?
Ridder has terrible ball placement. Yes, it has improved over the offseason with his mechanics, but it is very present. Maybe 20% of the passes were placed properly. That is simply not good enough in the modern NFL.
Overall
Ridder is a far greater risk than some, like Anthony Treash, think. Of course, the amazing thing about scouting is that we all watch the same tape and have totally different takeaways. I will say this: Ridder belongs in the NFL. He destroyed SMU (my school) too many times for me to deny that. The arm talent is good enough, the leadership is present, and the athleticism is very solid. The floor is high in the right scheme, but the probability of failure is, too.
Grading Scale: (Average: 5/10)
Arm Strength: 12/15
Decision Making / Progressions: 7/15
Accuracy: 3.75/10+
Ball Placement: 3.75/10+
Mechanics: 6.0/10+
Athleticism: 7.5/10
On the move/ Out of Structure: 7.75/10
Timing: 3/5
Pocket Presence: 2.5/5
Injury: 4/5
Mentality: 4.5/5
Draft Grade: 61.75+
Draft Projection: Top 40
Big Board Rank: 43
Shades of: Marcus Mariota
Top Three Fits: Falcons, Panthers, Seahawks
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