Titans' Calvin Ridley Tops Sports Illustrated's Most Likely Free Agent Bust List
NASHVILLE — Sports Illustrated's ranking of the 10 most likely free-agent busts includes big names such as Saquon Barkley, Russell Wilson, and Josh Jacobs. The publication also ranks Calvin Ridley, the Tennessee Titans’ $92 million investment at wide receiver, as the top potential bust.
"Ridley comes with too many concerns, including age, availability and performance. He played in every game for the Jaguars last season, something he did only once in five seasons with the Falcons," Sports Illustrated's Gilberto Manzano wrote. "But Ridley struggled to learn Doug Pederson’s offense and had a few costly drops with the Jaguars. Perhaps playing with new Titans coach Brian Callahan will make the Ridley signing worth the risks."
During the 2021 season, Ridley played only five games for the Atlanta Falcons due to a foot injury and his emotional health. He missed the entire 2022 season for violating the NFL's gambling policy.
In 2023, Ridley made a comeback, catching 76 passes for 1,016 yards and eight touchdowns. He had four games with 100-plus yards, twice against the Titans.
Now Ridley joins DeAndre Hopkins, another 1,000-yard receiver, as part of a Titans offensive makeover.
During his introductory press conference last week, Ridley tackled the concerns about his contract.
"I'm a good player. I'm the type of player who deserves this contract," Ridley said. "I'm the type of player you want in the building. Someone who is going to work for the organization. ... Y'all got a player that is going to work for whatever y'all gave me."
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