2018 NFL Draft: Is Calvin Ridley the top wide receiver?

Alabama Crimson Tide wide receiver Calvin Ridley has a great probability to go as the first pass catcher in the 2018 NFL Draft.

More: 2018 NFL Draft preview, player profiles and latest mock drafts

As consistent as they come during his college career, Alabama Crimson Tide wide out Calvin Ridley may be the most NFL-ready offensive player, that is not a quarterback, heading into the 2018 NFL Draft.

With high expectations coming into his freshman year, Ridley posted a 1,000-yard season during his rookie campaign at Alabama, along with seven touchdowns and an average of 11.4 yards per catch. While his overall numbers declined his sophomore year in 2016, he still managed to haul in another seven touchdowns despite grabbing 17 less catches than the year before.

During his junior season in 2017, Ridley became more present in big plays down field and really turned into a star at receiver. While posting a career low at five touchdowns, he still managed to put up 967 yards at a whopping 15.3 yards per catch. Ridley also provided the Crimson Tide with the game-tying touchdown during the national championship- the perfect exclamation on an illustrious career at Alabama.

Strengths

Ridley is a dangerous threat in both the short and long passing game as he possesses multiple gears of speed that he can turn on at any point. His effortless demeanor catches the defense off guard and forces them to a play hand before he turns it up a notch and burns passed them. He is often found moving around the field and with a quarterback like Jalen Hurts– someone who moves around the pocket, he was able to utilize that to his advantage.

An excellent route runner, Ridley also has great hands that allow him to make a play in traffic or go up and get a deep ball. His subtle fakes, whether it be a simple cut or quick head fake, make him nearly impossible to guard one-on-one at the collegiate level.

Weaknesses

Ridley will need to gain a bit of strength and toughness when dealing with professional defensive backs as he is susceptible to the cover press. Sometimes when dealing with hardcore man-to-man pressing, Ridley gets thrown off his routes and ends up throwing the entire rhythm off play- especially being the main target for Hurts on many occasions.

If Ridley is able to learn how to use his hands at the line to get away from the tight coverage, his speed and athleticism will do the rest and allow him to get open more freely.

Next: Latest pre-Combine first round NFL Mock Draft

Draft Expectations

Expect Ridley to be the first wide receiver off the board and possibly the first offensive, non-quarterback player to be selected. A top ten pick is not guaranteed as there are many teams looking for defense and quarterback, but if a team is looking to add a skill position right away, Ridley will be one of the first guys called.

Prediction: No. 6 – New York Jets