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NFL Draft 2018: Way-too-early ranking of top 7 SEC prospects

By Erich Hilkert

Sep 26, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Texas A&M Aggies receiver Christian Kirk (3) runs after a reception in the second quarter against the Arkansas Razorbacks at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 26, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Texas A&M Aggies receiver Christian Kirk (3) runs after a reception in the second quarter against the Arkansas Razorbacks at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-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 /

Calvin Ridley’s numbers took a dip last season, as Alabama threw the ball less last season with a true freshman at quarterback. Still, he did finish as the team leader a second straight year with 72 receptions.

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Ridley’s yardage totals dropped significantly, as he went from 1,045 yards in 2015 down to 769 yards in 2016.

Again, this can be attributed, at least in part, to having Jalen Hurts at quarterback. Hurts had an incredible freshman season, but his biggest weakness — throwing the deep ball — happens to be Ridley’s greatest strength.

Ridley tallied seven receiving touchdowns for the second straight season. He even managed to add a rushing touchdown to his resume in 2016.

Improving draft stock

Ridley has progressed as a blocker, but he could still stand to become more physical on the whole. Some cornerbacks have jammed him at the line of scrimmage. He is a willing blocker, but he can’t get pushed around by more physical cornerbacks at the NFL level.

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