When Cincinnati quarterback and 2022 NFL draft prospect Desmond Ridder looks at his game, he sees similarities between himself and Tennessee Titans quarterback, Ryan Tannehill.
While down at the 2022 NFL Combine, Ridder praised Tannehill and listed how the two are similar, while also calling him “a great game manager,” per ESPN’s Turron Davenport.
“He’s a great game manager,” Ridder said. “His energy and passion that he brings to the game. I see a lot of similarities myself, being able to stay under control. His leadership and how he’s been able to bring teams together. Also, he’s able to extend plays. That’s huge in today’s game.”
Usually, the term “game manager” carries a negative connotation, but in this case we don’t believe Ridder had any ill will towards the Titans quarterback with this statement.
However, every single one of Tannehill’s detractors will be salivating at Ridder’s quote.
After all, Tannehill’s inability to carry the Titans on his back in big spots and his reliance on a superstar running back in Derrick Henry has been among the biggest knocks coming from those who doubt him.
Unfortunately for Tannehill, the number of people who have staunchly supported him in the face of such criticism is waning after his divisional-round implosion against the Cincinnati Bengals.
And that same implosion could lead to the Titans taking a quarterback in the upcoming draft — and Ridder should be someone who is on their radar.
The Cincinnati product sports an above-average arm, has great mobility, and has displayed leadership and work ethic that will no doubt impress teams.
Further, Ridder appears to be someone the Titans could realistically target at the end of the first round, but we don’t expect he’ll be around for Tennessee’s second pick, which doesn’t come until the third round.
Ridder is one of three quarterbacks the Titans have met with or are scheduled to meet with down at the combine, with North Carolina’s Sam Howell and Nevada’s Carson Strong being the others.
