The Las Vegas Raiders made a crucial move to bolster their quarterback depth on Monday, as reported by NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero. Sources revealed that the Raiders have signed quarterback Desmond Ridder from the Arizona Cardinals’ practice squad. This move comes after second-year quarterback Aidan O’Connell sustained a broken thumb during a tough loss to the Los Angeles Rams.
Ridder, a third-round pick in the 2022 NFL draft by the Atlanta Falcons, has already accumulated valuable experience with 17 starts in his young career. Last season, Ridder threw for 2,836 yards, 12 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions, resulting in an 83.4 passer rating.
Following his trade to the Cardinals last offseason, Ridder had hoped to secure the backup quarterback position behind Kyler Murray. However, he was edged out by rookie Clayton Tune, a fifth-round pick in 2023. Despite being waived by the Cardinals in August, Ridder found his way back to the team on the practice squad.
The Raiders’ quarterback situation has been tumultuous in 2024, with Gardner Minshew initially winning the starting job in training camp. After a 2–3 start in the first five games, Coach Antonio Pierce decided to give O’Connell a chance in Week 6, only for the Raiders to suffer a disappointing loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Looking ahead, Las Vegas is gearing up to face the undefeated Kansas City Chiefs at Allegiant Stadium on Sunday. This matchup against a formidable opponent will put the Raiders’ new quarterback depth to the test as they aim to bounce back from recent setbacks.
