Calvin Ridley NFL Draft 2018: Scouting Report for Atlanta Falcons' Pick

Matt Miller @nfldraftscoutNFL Draft Lead WriterApril 27, 2018

Alabama wide receiver Calvin Ridley misses the ball during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Mississippi, Saturday, Sept. 30, 2017, in Tuscaloosa, Ala. Alabama won 66-3. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

Brynn Anderson/Associated Press

POSITIVES

—Polished, pretty route-runner.

—Has the speed to accelerate away from coverage.

—Runs like a gazelle with an agile stride and quick, light steps.

—Extends well and attacks the ball with his hands.

—Has the wheels to make big plays after the catch.

—Is versatile enough to play in any alignment and get open.

—Stats were held back by an awful QB situation at Alabama.

NEGATIVES

—Lacks size to separate against elite cornerbacks and has to win with speed.

—Drops were an issue throughout his career.

—Has a maxed out frame.

—Could struggle to beat press coverage given lack of size and length.

—Will be a 23-year-old rookie.

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OVERALL

Ridley is a smooth operator as a route-runner and has a natural, easy way about him catching the ball. Teams may be turned off by his lack of size (6'0", 189 lbs) or production, but he’s clearly the best receiver in the 2018 class.

GRADE: 7.05 (Round 1)

PRO PLAYER COMPARISON: Reggie Wayne, retired