Ranking NFC South quarterbacks ahead of training camp

Where do Baker Mayfield and the Bucs stack up against the division?
Buccaneers, Baker Mayfield
Buccaneers, Baker Mayfield / Julio Aguilar/GettyImages
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3. Desmond Ridder, Falcons

Last year, the Atlanta Falcons went with Marcus Mariota for the majority of the season before ultimately allowing the rookie third-round pick, Desmond Ridder, to take over as the team's starter. The former Cincinnati standout went on to lose his first two starts, following it up by winning his final two.

Ridder was aided by an offense that ran the ball more often than just about anyone else in the league, which is something any smart team with a young quarterback can learn from. Once again in 2023, Ridder will get the same thing. Atlanta drafted running back Bijan Robinson out of Texas, who figures to be the work horse in an offense that has many capable runners.

Ridder also boasts two highly-talented weapons in wide receiver Drake London and tight end Kyle Pitts. If the offense uses Pitts the way he should be used, then Ridder's success will only heighten. Pitts was drafted far too high to be used as a blocker more than just a couple times a game. If Ridder targets Pitts, he'll see success.

The same goes for London. If Ridder gets London involved, his success will only grow. Last year, London had a target share of 29 percent and was one of the top 15 graded wide receivers via Pro Football Focus. Because Atlanta ran the ball so much, it might have flown over the heads of fans. But, London was phenomenal and Ridder should use him often.