The Indianapolis Colts got an up close look at a former third round pick who has a history with one of their offensive starters

Colts give Alec Pierce's college QB Desmond Ridder a tryout during mandatory minicamp

The Atlanta Falcons drafted Ridder in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft. He spent the first two seasons of his career in Atlanta before being traded to the Arizona Cardinals in the offseason before the 2024 season. He never suited up for a regular season game with the Cardinals, though, and was signed off their practice squad to the Las Vegas Raiders active roster in October of last year. 

While with Atlanta Ridder started 17 games and threw for 4,085 yards, 14 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. Before joining the NFL, though, he had a four-year college career at Cincinnati. All of which he played with the Colts' 2024 leading receiver, Alec Pierce. The two built a strong connection, and during their final year together, they connected 52 times for 884 yards and seven touchdowns. And they led the Bearcats to the College Football Playoffs.

Ahead of the 2022 NFL Draft, the Colts held a private workout at Cincinnati. Many believed Ridder was the focus of the workout for the Colts, but the workout also involved multiple offensive draft eligible players, one of which was Alec Pierce, who they went on to use their second-round pick (their first selection in that draft) in the 2022 NFL Draft on. At this time, the Colts have not signed Ridder to a contract following the tryout. With Anthony Richardson being sidelined for an undisclosed amount of time while his shoulder rests, though, it would be wise for the Colts to add another QB. This would ensure they always have at least three available in minicamp and training camp later this summer.