Calvin Ridley NFL Draft 2018: Scouting Report for Atlanta Falcons' Pick
April 27, 2018
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
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