Falcons benching Ridder again, Heinicke to start vs. Colts

The Atlanta Falcons are sending Desmond Ridder to the bench for a second time this season, the team announced on their depth chart Tuesday.

Taylor Heinicke will start Sunday's matchup against the Indianapolis Colts.

Ridder played poorly in a Week 15 loss to the Carolina Panthers, completing just 12 of 20 passes for 152 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. His pick came in the opposing team's red zone, with the Panthers scoring a game-winning field goal on the ensuing drive.

The 2022 third-round pick was benched for two games earlier this season, starting Weeks 9 and 10 on the sideline. However, Ridder returned to the lineup in Week 12 following Atlanta's bye.

The Falcons have lost two in a row to fall to 6-8, placing them behind the 7-7 division-leading Tampa Bay Buccaneers. They also trail the 7-7 New Orleans Saints in the NFC South.

Ridder has thrown 10 touchdowns to 10 interceptions this season.