Calvin Ridley, WR – Alabama
6010 – 188 | JR
DOB: 12/20/1994 (23)
WR Rank: 2
Pass Game Strengths
  • Great footwork/release off the line of scrimmage.
  • Sharp breaks at the top of routes.
  • Excellent body control and mid-air adjustments.
  • Creates major separation on deep routes.
  • Does a great job of working back to the negative when the QB is scrambling and extending the play.
  • Knows when and where to sit down in zone coverages.
  • Follows blocks with patience and ease.
  • Great high-point ability. Attacks the ball in the air, despite the corner’s coverage.
  • Long speed can outrun any defender on the field.
  • Comfortable playing from both the slot and outside.
  • Sticky hands that can catch any ball thrown his way.
Run Game Strengths
  • Capable of taking end-around runs for big plays.
  • Able to quickly get downfield as a blocker.
Pass Game Weaknesses
  • Not super elusive after the catch. Needs to become more twitchy and break more tackles.
  • Does not use hands to get off press coverage. Needs to use chop-swipe technique to retaliate to being jammed at the line.
  • Route tree isn’t fully polished. Needs to become more comfortable running routes over the middle of the field.
Run Game Weaknesses
  • Struggles to hold down blocks in the open field.
  • Subpar blocking vision/anticipation.
Receiving Stats
Year Games Receptions Yards Avg TDs
FR 15 89 1045 11.7 7
SO 15 72 769 10.7 7
JR 14 63 967 15.3 5

www.sports-reference.com

Summary

Calvin Ridley has the skill set to play both on the outside and in the slot in the NFL. His speed and ability to separate from defenders will pay instant dividends at the next level, but he needs to become more comfortable playing across the middle. Despite being one of the older receivers in this draft class, Ridley will have an immediate impact as a reliable target for his NFL team and as a low-end WR3 for dynasty teams.

NFL Draft Prediction

Mid-to-Late 1st Round

NFL Player Comparison

Donald Driver (This is my most favorite comparison I have ever made)

Dynasty Lens

Depending on the attractiveness of his landing spot, Calvin Ridley will likely be a top-five pick in all formats, but due to his limited ceiling and potential, I would not reach and take him with a top-five pick. I would feel comfortable taking him with a 1.06 or 1.07.

Bottom Line

Calvin Ridley is a high-floor, low-ceiling player who will not be an elite player but will be a consistent number two for an NFL team for many years.