Bengals add to Burrow backup options ahead of 2025 NFL season
The Cincinnati Bengals have dipped into the free-agency market to add a quarterback to their ranks.
The Cincinnati Bengals have reached an agreement with free agent quarterback Desmond Ridder, who brings NFL experience from stints with the Las Vegas Raiders, Arizona Cardinals (practice squad), and Atlanta Falcons.
Ridder added to Burrow backup options
While Joe Burrow remains firmly entrenched as the Bengals’ starting quarterback, Ridder will compete for a backup role alongside Jake Browning, Logan Woodside, and rookie Payton Thorne.
We have made the following roster moves⤵️
— Cincinnati Bengals (@Bengals) July 20, 2025
Signed:
Agim, McTelvin (DT - Arkansas)
Bryan, Taven (DT - Florida)
Raym, Andrew (C - Oklahoma)
Ridder, Desmond (QB - Cincinnati)
Waived:
Manning, Tashawn (G - Kentucky)
Released:
Woodside, Logan (QB - Toledo)… pic.twitter.com/PmhnZyUdtI
Ridder’s NFL career so far
Ridder appeared in six games for the Raiders last season after being signed off the Cardinals’ practice squad.
Prior to that, the 25-year-old started 17 games for the Falcons, who selected him in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft. He initially backed up Marcus Mariota during his rookie campaign before taking over as the starter.
In 2024, the Falcons traded Ridder to the Cardinals in exchange for wide receiver Rondale Moore, after the young quarterback failed to solidify his role as the long-term starter in Atlanta.
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