Not Sold on Desmond Ridder’s Ability, Falcons GM Admits Drafting a QB as a ‘Top Priority’ With the Likes of Jayden Daniels in Sight

The Falcons are making major changes in preparation for the upcoming 2024 season. As the dates for drafting and trade draw nearer, the team’s staff has commenced their ‘February Scouting meetings.’ The general manager of the Atlanta Falcons, Terry Fontenot, opened up about the deliberation regarding the new roster during his appearance on the NFL Report show.

Fontenot shared the Falcons’ plans going forward and admitted that the search for a quarterback is on the table.  He emphasized that they’re beginning with a self-analysis of the team dynamics and the current players before coming to a decision. The statement certainly doesn’t look good for Desmond Ridder‘s position in the Falcons.

All options: trades, free agency, and draft, are open for the Falcons

In a conversation about Atlanta’s meetings, Fontenot outlined the current strategy the managing team is following before they decide on the final roster. He explained that “the first step” for them is to “really take a hard look” at the present lineup. Going by the introspection plan, he further said that they are “spending a lot of time with the coaches,” new and old.

The Falcons have the eighth position in the draft overall pick and might have plans to trade up to acquire the most sought-after players. Relating the action plan after the self-analysis, and especially regarding the quarterback position, Fontenot said that Atlanta will remain open to all options. He said they will be consulting with the old and new people joining, including the new head coach, Raheem Morris.

“We won’t close any doors. That’s a top priority for us this offseason. It’s exciting again, not only people that have been in the building but people outside the building in Raheem (Morris) and Zac (Robinson), T.J. Yates, Ken Zampese (and) D.J. Williams…we have a lot of really smart people in the building.”

Current QBs of Atlanta, Desmond Ridders, and Taylor Heinicke, haven’t succeeded in cementing their position in the team, and their trade has been speculated. With the manager making it clear that they are not crossing out a quarterback change, a suitable pick through the draft or free market might be in the queue.

Who are the top QB prospects to replace Desmond Ridder?

Fontenot had expressed his excitement about the new draft, “not just at quarterback, but at a lot of positions.” He also clarified that the team is keeping “communication open” for potential trading options. This open-to-all attitude has opened up a lot of quarterback options for the Falcons.

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Heisman Trophy winner Jayden Daniels from LSU is predicted to be one of the top first-round picks for this year’s draft. His stats have been no less than impressive, scoring 40 touchdowns, four interceptions, and completing 72.2 % of his passes for 3,812 yards. He is easily the top choice for a lot of teams and is a promising candidate to strengthen a team’s offense.

The Atlanta Falcons are coming through with full force for the upcoming 2024 season. The general manager has made it clear that they plan to make a strong team first, after scrutiny and deliberation. With such well-fleshed-out plans, it will be a season to look forward to for them!

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