Arthur Smith confirm new QB and name His starting QB for vs. Colts

Falcons Turn to Heinicke as Starting Quarterback, Benching Ridder for Second Time in 2023

In an effort to salvage a challenging season, Atlanta Falcons head coach Arthur Smith is making another significant quarterback change. According to NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport, the Falcons are set to start Taylor Heinicke in their upcoming game against the Indianapolis Colts, relegating second-year quarterback Desmond Ridder to the bench. This marks the second benching for Ridder in the 2023 season, with Heinicke taking over as the starter in Weeks 9 and 10, both resulting in losses for the Falcons.

Desmond Ridder briefly regained his starting position after stepping in for an injured Heinicke during a late-game comeback attempt. However, the struggles that plagued Ridder earlier in the season persisted, notably in the recent disappointing 9-7 loss to the two-win Carolina Panthers. Ridder’s inconsistency throughout the game, coupled with a critical red zone interception, contributed to a defeat that dealt a blow to the Falcons’ playoff aspirations.

Ridder’s performances have been marred by a high number of turnovers, ranking him fifth in the NFL with 16, including six in the red zone. His road performances, in particular, have been subpar, with a completion rate of just 59.4 percent and an average of 162.6 yards per game in two seasons as a road starter.

The decision to bench Ridder again raises questions about the future of the young quarterback in Atlanta. Taylor Heinicke, who previously started for the Falcons, did not deliver standout performances in his two starts, completing 54.72 percent of his passes with two touchdowns, an interception, and four sacks in consecutive losses. Smith appears to be exploring all options to ignite a late-season resurgence, acknowledging Heinicke’s aggressive style, which, while opening up the offense, also comes with the risk of turnovers.

Facing the Colts at home followed by trips to Chicago and New Orleans to close out the season, the Falcons are desperately seeking a turnaround. The disappointing season has put Coach Arthur Smith’s future in doubt, and the decision to turn back to Heinicke might be a pivotal move. If unsuccessful, major changes could be on the horizon for the Falcons in 2024.