Why Washington should draft Desmond Ridder

That’s the next step in this piece. There’s one big thing that many in the pre-draft process like, and it’s an active quarterback pre-snap. Similarly, with Carson Strong, Desmond Ridder has shown high levels of pre-snap decision-making that leads to Cincinnati’s success.

One play, in particular, where he slides his protection into the corner blitz, tells his running back where his eyes should be, and then he delivers a quick strike into the hole against the blitz.

Experience at the collegiate level, coupled with his sheer arm talent excites you, especially so if you’re in the business of looking for that next guy under center. Washington is in that boat, but there’s one more thing that I believe should interest Washington and specifically Scott Turner.

Washington’s offense loves to move the pocket around, rely heavily on the run game, execute timing concepts, and eventually hit the big passing plays at the second and third level. Though it may not seem to be the case due to Washington’s largely lackluster play under center over the last two years, I believe Turner is looking for a guy that can not only benefit from some of the things Turner loves to do as a play-caller, but also has the tools to make those high-level throws that are necessary.

Ridder checks those boxes for Washington as well. He will benefit from Turner’s manufactured throws and heavy structure within the offense, but he also has the tools to raise the ceiling of that offense in the long run. Washington’s offensive line and rushing attack have been a steady force for success in the Nation’s Capital, and while Ridder may not immediately be ready to play, his development will be benefited by a group both behind and in front of him that can do a lot of heavy lifting early on in his career.