Desmond Ridder outperformed another quarterback in Vikings tryout following J.J. McCarthy’s injury.

Desmond Ridder Joins Vikings After Competitive Tryout

Desmond Ridder faced quite a challenge landing a position with the Minnesota Vikings.

The 26-year-old quarterback earned a tryout against Dorian Thompson Robinson and officially signed with the team on Tuesday, as noted by various sources.

Ridder will act as the Vikings’ emergency third-string quarterback, supporting starter Carson Wentz and backup Max Brother as they prepare to face the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday.

This comes in the wake of injuries sustained by JJ McCarthy, who will be sidelined for two to four weeks due to a high ankle sprain. It’s been a tough week for the Vikings, as McCarthy’s injury was unexpected, especially after a difficult game on Sunday night.

Head coach Kevin O’Connell expressed his disappointment, saying he felt “crushed” upon hearing the news of McCarthy.

Ridder had previously participated in six games with the Raiders last season. Before that, he spent two years with the Falcons, where he appeared in 19 games and started 17 of them. He was also with the Bengals during training camp but was released just prior to the season kickoff.

On the other hand, Thompson Robinson, who has spent the last two seasons with the Browns after being a fifth-round draft pick in 2023, remains a free agent.

The Vikings are currently grappling with injuries, having lost starter Aaron Jones to a hamstring issue. Expect Jordan Mason to step up as the primary running back in Jones’ absence. Additionally, the team has signed running back Cam Akers, who had been part of the practice squad previously.