The Atlanta Falcons have a significant concern at wide receiver that they must fix this offseason with Julio Jones’ relationship with the team reportedly “in a bad place” at the moment. But it’s not all doom and gloom for Atlanta at that position.
Their first-round pick, Calvin Ridley, is proving to be a source of optimism around the team as he’s drawn praise from his teammates with his ability, and perhaps more importantly, his attitude.
“One thing me and the veteran DBs already talked about and one of the things I'm already excited to see is him in Year 4 and Year 5,” free safety Ricardo Allen said, via Vaughn McClure of ESPN. “I know that's kind of jumping ahead early, but because he's such a disciplined route runner and because he already kind of moves like a veteran, I just want to see when he becomes a veteran how much better a player he's going to be.
“He's the real deal. And he's a good person. He's not walking around like he thinks he's hot s—. He's walking around like a really good dude.”
Falcons head coach Dan Quinn is also high on the rookie, who was already a bit “ahead of the curve” thanks to his time in Alabama. Ridley also showcased his speed, athleticism, and strong football IQ during the team’s offseason practices, which encouraged Quinn.
It’s definitely encouraging to hear such glowing words said about the rookie. The Falcons will need Ridley to contribute right away after Taylor Gabriel’s departure this offseason. He will be asked to provide quarterback Matt Ryan with another reliable receiving option apart from Jones and Mohamed Sanu. If he can successfully do that, the Falcons offense should get a significant boost this season.
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