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SEC Football: Top 10 players to watch this spring

By Jerran Anderson

Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Minkah Fitzpatrick (29) and linebacker Tim Williams (56) react after a fumble recovery during the first quarter against the Clemson Tigers in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Minkah Fitzpatrick (29) and linebacker Tim Williams (56) react after a fumble recovery during the first quarter against the Clemson Tigers in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide wide receiver Calvin Ridley (3) warms up prior to the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game against the Clemson Tigers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide wide receiver Calvin Ridley (3) warms up prior to the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game against the Clemson Tigers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

Alabama Crimson Tide wide receiver had another strong season in 2016 and returns as their best deep threat in 2017. Ridley didn’t eclipse 1,000 receiving yards like he did in 2015, but his production still got him some notice.

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Ridley caught a team-high 72 passes for 769 receiving yards and seven touchdowns last season. He earned second team All-SEC honors for his play as well. He set a new career-high in receiving yards and receptions against Kentucky, when he caught 11 passes for 174 receiving yards and two touchdowns.

Ridley’s freshman season was definitely more productive, as he set a freshman record with 1,045 receiving yards and seven touchdowns. With Jalen Hurts at quarterback, Ridley showed he has big playmaking ability and with a year of chemistry under their belt, 2017 could be a huge one for the rising junior receiver.

With some competition from newcomers off the recruiting trail, look for Ridley to lead by example, starting this spring with a strong performance.

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