3 Atlanta Falcons whose stock is up after week two loss to Rams

2. Desmond Ridder

Desmond Ridder might not have played for the Falcons through the first two weeks this season but there is no question his stock is pointed up after Sunday. Mariota had great moments in Atlanta’s comeback attempt but the veteran had just as many ugly moments consistently turning the ball over and overthrowing his receivers.

Judging from Arthur Smith’s postgame it is hard to believe that Ridder will get a chance to start a game anytime soon. Mariota has Smith’s respect meaning he will have to actively lose the starting job over multiple poor performances, Smith isn’t going to simply throw Ridder in the lineup searching for improvement.

Mariota’s mistakes and overthrows are what pushed the Titans to bench their first-round pick and what will end up giving Desmond Ridder his first start. Ridder was considered one of the most pro-ready prospects of any of the rookie quarterbacks this season and should get his chance to start.

Unfortunately for Atlanta fans, it seems increasingly likely that will happen late into the season when Arthur Smith has no doubt that Marcus Mariota isn’t capable of being a starting quarterback in this league.