For all the talk that the 2022 NFL Draft is lacking talent at the quarterback position, Desmond Ridder and Malik Willis are collectively doing all they can to dispel that notion.

 

Following a strong performance at the NFL Combine, Malik Willis has been seeing his draft stock rise with each passing day. His performance at Liberty University's Pro-Day has only further increased his hype. This throw specifically had NFL Twitter blowing up last Tuesday.

 

Desmond Ridder had been subtly preparing for draft day, generating less hype while still performing well when it mattered most.

Now, Ridder is starting to generate the hype that will ensure his draft stock rises in the upcoming weeks.

This throw from Ridder during Cincinnati's Pro Day had the internet waking up to the QB's talent.

If you were to analyze both throws side by side it appears that Ridder threw the same pass Willis did, albeit seemingly a full 5 yards further. Willis launched from around the 35 yard line and it landed at the goal line. Ridder launched from the 20 yard line and landed around the opposite 10 yard line.

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This display of arm strength had previously been an under-the-radar attribute for Ridder, but it was clear at his Pro Day that Ridder wanted to let scouts know what he is capable of. It is hard to imagine this type of performance will have Ridder flying under-the-radar any more.

 

In our most recent Mock Draft, our very own Mike Johrendt had Willis getting selected #4 overall by the Carolina Panthers. In other mock drafts, Ridder has been projected to land anywhere between the late 1st to late 2nd round. With his Pro Day performance however, don't be surprised if Ridder sees his stock rise into that of a surefire first-rounder.

 

Stay tuned for more NFL Draft Updates.