Calvin Ridley

Calvin Ridley Player Profile

Summary

Calvin Ridley was selected in the 1st Round (#26 Overall) in the 2018 Draft out of University of Alabama. Ridley is an explosive and polished route runner known for his precision, quickness, and ability to create separation at all three levels. After a standout start in Atlanta and a career resurgence in Jacksonville, he joined the Titans in 2024 as a proven veteran playmaker with WR1 capability.

Strengths

  • Exceptional route‑running: Ridley’s crisp cuts, sudden change of direction and ability to create separation are some of his greatest attributes. LAFB Network

  • Explosive after the catch / deep‑threat ability: The ability to stretch the field vertically and take advantage of space is one of his stand‑out traits. NFL.com

  • Reliable hands and body control: Ridley has shown he can make contested catches, play with good body control and be trusted to win in traffic. Team Speed Kills

  • Versatility: Can line up in multiple places (outside or slot) and run a broad route tree effectively. NFL.com

Weaknesses

  • Size / physicality concerns: At around 6’0″ and ~190 lbs Ridley lacks ideal size or strength to consistently beat press coverage or bigger defensive backs. Bleacher Report

  • Press‑coverage / hand‐fighting at the line: While Ridley can burst, he needed improvement in winning the physical battle at the line of scrimmage in man/press situations. NFL.com

  • Blocking / non‑catching duties: As with many elite receivers, run‑blocking and off‑ball contributions were areas where he had room to grow. LAFB Network

  • Drop issues: While generally reliable, Ridley can get into a funk with inconsistent minor drops, especially when he is not being featured in large phases of a game. Bleacher Report

  • Age & Mileage – Turning 30 in 2025; may be nearing the tail end of peak speed years.

Fit & Outlook

Ridley thrives in offenses that emphasize timing, spacing, and precision passing. In Tennessee, he provides a veteran, reliable target on intermediate and deep routes while allowing younger receivers to develop around him. His skill set complements a pro-style offense or a spread scheme that utilizes motion and route combinations to create separation. If he maintains health and consistency, Ridley projects as a WR2 with WR1 upside, capable of producing 70+ receptions and 1,000+ yards in a full season. His veteran presence also benefits the quarterback and younger receivers, making him a dual-threat both on the stat sheet and in leadership.