Falcons Trade QB Desmond Ridder to Cardinals, per Source

Atlanta has moved on from its young quarterback after signing Kirk Cousins earlier this week.

The Atlanta Falcons are trading quarterback Desmond Ridder to the Arizona Cardinals in exchange for wide receiver Rondale Moore, a source told Sports Illustrated‘s Albert Breer.

Ridder became expendable after the Falcons signed free agent quarterback Kirk Cousins to a four-year deal to become the franchise’s new starting quarterback. For Ridder, it’s an opportunity for a fresh start in a new situation behind starter Kyler Murray in Arizona.

Ridder is entering just his third season as a pro, and made 17 starts with the Falcons. He completed 64.0% of his passes for 3,544 yards and 14 touchdowns to 12 interceptions in his two seasons.

Desmond Ridder is on the move to the Arizona Cardinals via trade after two seasons with the Atlanta Falcons :: Bob Donnan/USA TODAY

For Moore, it’s an opportunity to immediately become a factor in a pass heavy offensive scheme with Cousins in Atlanta. Moore’s value as a potential return man and speed threat at slot receiver will add another dimension to Atlanta’s improved offense.

Moore is entering his fourth season in the NFL this fall, and has caught 135 passes for 1,201 yards and three touchdowns in 39 games for the Cardinals. The former second-round pick out of Purdue has the ability to take the top off the defense with his speed, even though he’s on the smaller side for a receiver at 5' 7".