2024 NFL Free Agent Wide Receiver: Calvin Ridley
Calvin Ridley could Gamble on Himself again in 2024
Calvin Ridley’s journey in the NFL has been anything but ordinary. He quickly made a name for himself and was drafted in the first round in 2018 from Alabama. However, his career took a dramatic turn in 2021 when he left the Atlanta Falcons after just five games due to mental health reasons. This was followed by a suspension for the entire 2022 season due to gambling allegations. Despite these setbacks, Ridley showed resilience and was traded to the Jacksonville Jaguars in November 2022. I will explore the potential scenarios for Ridley and his projected fantasy football value.
Jacksonville Jaguars
It could have significant implications if the Jacksonville Jaguars secure a long-term deal with Calvin Ridley. The Falcons would receive a second-round pick, highlighting the value they place on Ridley. Even if the Jaguars choose not to sign him, they still need to hand Atlanta a third-round selection. Despite the financial implications, there is mutual interest in a deal. Ridley’s career average of 73 catches, 1,019 yards, and 8 TDs, excluding his 2021 and 2022 seasons, suggests he is worth the investment. In Jacksonville, he could maintain his status as a top-20 WR.
Atlanta Falcons
A potential reunion with the Atlanta Falcons could be on the horizon for Calvin Ridley. It would also mean bringing Jacksonville’s third-round draft pick with him. The Falcons’ current quarterback situation adds a layer of uncertainty to any fantasy predictions. With a range of potential quarterbacks, from Desmond Ridder to Justin Fields or one of the top two projected QBs in the draft, which include Caleb Williams and Drake Maye, it isn’t easy to foresee Ridley’s fit. This situation will need to unfold before I can make any concrete predictions.
Kansas City Chiefs
This signing is right in Big Red’s wheelhouse. The Chiefs have been attacking the wide receiver position through free agency since Tyreke Hill was traded to Miami in 2022. Adding Ridley could be deadly in the passing game for Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce, with Rashee Rice ascending much faster than many anticipated. Calvin Ridley in Kansas City would be drafted as a solid WR2, with a current ranking of 68 overall at fantasypros.com. He would fall further on draft boards as the #2 receiver in this offense behind Rice. He could still crack the 1,000-yard mark in this offense and be a steal at that ADP.