Desmond Ridder is making buzz in the football world for a good reason. On Monday Night Football, Ridder faced his former team, the Atlanta Falcons, as the starting quarterback for the Las Vegas Raiders.
This unexpected start came after Raiders’ quarterback Aidan O’Connell was sidelined with a knee injury.
The football world’s eyes were on Ridder as he took the field with a chance to showcase his talent and determination.
Ridder’s first-half performance was solid.
He completed 7-of-11 passes for 59 yards and also displayed his versatility as a dual-threat quarterback, rushing for 22 yards on three carries.
Despite his contributions, the Raiders trailed the Falcons 9-3 at halftime.
However, his performance reignited discussions about his potential as a starting quarterback in the NFL.
Desmond Ridder’s Football Journey In Brief
Desmond Ridder’s football career has been a story of perseverance and potential.
From his early days as a young athlete, Ridder’s rise to prominence began in high school, where he showcased his skills as a dynamic quarterback.
As a result, his abilities earned him a spot at the University of Cincinnati, where he made a name for himself as one of the most successful quarterbacks in the program’s history.
At Cincinnati, Ridder became a four-year starter and played a key role in elevating the Bearcats to national prominence.
Under his leadership, Cincinnati made history by becoming the first non-Power Five team to reach the College Football Playoff in 2021.
Consequently, in the 2022 NFL Draft, Ridder was selected in the third round by the Atlanta Falcons.
However, he delivered mixed performances with the Falcons and eventually lost his starting position.
His recent start for the Raiders against his former team has symbolized a chance for redemption, and his solid first-half performance reignited discussions about his potential to thrive as an NFL starter.
Desmon Rider’s Wife Is His College Sweetheart, Claire Cornett
Off the field, Desmond Ridder’s life revolves around his family, wife, and kids.
He is married to his long-time partner, Claire Cornett, who has been by his side through the highs and lows of his career.
Like Ridder, Cornett hails from Kentucky.
The couple’s story began in 2016 when they met during high school.
Their bond grew stronger as they both attended the University of Cincinnati, where they supported each other’s academic and personal pursuits.
After a few years of dating, Ridder proposed to Cornett in 2018.
Four years later, on July 21, 2022, they officially tied the knot.
Claire Cornett graduated from the University of Cincinnati with a degree in political science.
She currently works in sales at Max Retail, a digital marketplace that assists local businesses and brands in selling their merchandise.
On their 2nd wedding anniversary, Desmond took to Instagram to express his gratitude towards Claire, calling her the best wife, mother, and friend.
“Happy 2nd Anniversary to my Beautiful, Strong, Loving Wife! Thank you for loving me unconditionally through thick and thin and never missing a chance to make me laugh. You are the BEST Wife, Mother, and Friend that anyone could ask for… Here’s to many more years of Love, Life, and Happiness! I Love You more than you will ever know♥️”
Via Instagram
Today, Desmond and Claire are proud parents of two children.
They welcomed their daughter, Leighton Elizabeth, in April 2021.
Three years later, their family grew with the arrival of their son, Khylan Jett.
Fatherhood has had a profound impact on Ridder, as he often speaks about how becoming a father has changed his perspective on life and football.
He’s spoken in interviews about how being a father motivates him to be the best version of himself both on and off the field.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Desmond Ridder was born on August 31, 1999.
- His mother and grandmother together raised him.
- He also has a half-sister named Tia.
