2018 NFL Draft Big Board: Ranking the Top 10 Prospects
By Jon Dove
5. Calvin Ridley, WR, Alabama
Calvin Ridley is a long and extremely athletic wide receiver prospect. He comes with a ton of experience playing in high-leverage games. This is someone who knows what it feels like to compete at the highest level with everything on the line.
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Ridley’s combination of balance and smooth movement ability allows him to run clean routes. He is able to limit wasted movements while also masking his intentions. This makes it difficult for defensive backs to get a jump on the ball.
While he’s has a slight build, Ridley does a good job fighting for position. He uses his long frame and arms to high point the football. This makes him an effective red zone threat and capable of winning in contested situations.
Ridley is the complete package in that he also has the speed to stretch the field. In these situations, he can track the football and adjust his body if needed.
It’s important to note that his recent success has come with erratic quarterback play and within a run-heavy Alabama offense. This shows that Ridley doesn’t need a high-flying offense in order to put up impressive numbers.
Ridley should be the No. 1 receiver on a good NFL team and provide the quarterback with a reliable target.