Bengals Sign Desmond Ridder To Compete With Joe Burrow

The Cincinnati Bengals have signed quarterback Desmond Ridder, a former University of Cincinnati standout, to compete as a backup to star quarterback Joe Burrow ahead of the 2025 NFL season. Ridder, who was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in 2022 and had stints with the Las Vegas Raiders and Arizona Cardinals, brings experience as a starter in 18 NFL games but has faced challenges with interceptions and consistency. His signing follows the Bengals releasing Logan Woodside and joining Jake Browning and Payton Thorne in the quarterback room, aiming to strengthen depth behind Burrow, who led the league last season in passing yards and touchdowns despite the team’s 9-8 record. Fans have shown mixed reactions to Ridder’s addition, balancing local pride due to his college success with questions about his NFL performance. The Bengals also bolstered their defense with additional signings, signaling a proactive approach to improving the roster. Meanwhile, Joe Burrow continues to solidify his status as one of the NFL’s elite quarterbacks, holding the all-time record for pass completion percentage, underscoring his critical role in the franchise’s future.