Denver, Colorado — Quarterback Desmond Ridder has withdrawn from a scheduled tryout with the Broncos, which was set to take place during the team’s three-day rookie minicamp this weekend. The decision, reported by Parker Gabriel of The Denver Post, comes without any explanation for the change in plans.
Ridder entered free agency in March after the Raiders chose not to extend a contract to him as a restricted free agent. Originally drafted in the third round by the Falcons in 2022, he was traded to the Cardinals the following year. After being unable to secure a spot on Arizona’s 53-man roster, Ridder found a place with the Raiders, who signed him off the practice squad in October when fellow quarterback Aidan O’Connell was placed on injured reserve. Although O’Connell eventually returned, Ridder remained with the team due to an injury to Gardner Minshew.
During the 2023 season, Ridder played in six games for the Raiders, starting once against the Falcons in Week 15. He completed 52 of 85 pass attempts, accumulating 458 yards, with two touchdowns and two interceptions. Over his three-year career, he has started a total of 18 games and achieved 16 touchdown passes alongside 14 interceptions.
The sudden change in Ridder’s participation raises questions about his next steps in what has become a challenging career path. His time in the NFL has been marked by movement between teams as he seeks a stable position. The Broncos, meanwhile, are in the process of evaluating quarterback prospects as they look to enhance their roster.
With a competitive landscape in the league, Ridder’s choice to skip the tryout could signify a strategic pivot as he weighs his options moving forward. The Broncos will continue their evaluation of rookie talent without the former Falcon and Raider, as they prepare for the upcoming season.
As teams finalize their rosters, the focus remains on the quarterbacks who will define their futures. Ridder’s experience in a rollercoaster career thus far underscores the uncertainty that comes with being a professional athlete in such a dynamic environment. Whether this decision will impact his standing in the league remains to be seen.