The 2022 NFL trade deadline was today, and we saw plenty of deals go down. However, there was one trade that no one saw coming.
The Atlanta Falcons are sending wide receiver Calvin Ridley to the Jacksonville Jaguars in a complex deal. While the trade sounds complicated, it boils down to two simple things: Ridley’s suspension and if he re-signs with the Jaguars next offseason.
If the veteran receiver gets reinstated, the Falcons will receive a fifth-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. Then, if Ridley makes the Jaguars’ roster next season, the Falcons will receive a 2024 fourth-round pick. That 2024 pick could become a third-round pick if Ridley meets a certain playing time milestone. However, if Jacksonville signs the receiver to a long-term deal, Atlanta will receive a second-round pick in 2024 instead.
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Does Calvin Ridley Have Any Value In 2022?
The trade is exciting news for Jaguar fans. However, Ridley isn’t eligible to play this season as he serves the remainder of his suspension for betting on NFL games from last year.
Fantasy players have no reason to add the veteran off the waiver wire, as the next time he can step foot on the field is in 2023.
What’s Calvin Ridley’s Value In Dynasty Fantasy Football?
Many are excited about the former first-round pick’s future in Jacksonville and his dynasty value.
When Ridley plays in 2023, it will be for the first time in nearly two years. The veteran played five games last season before stepping away to focus on his mental health. However, he was a fantasy star before the 2021 season.
The former Alabama star was a top-five wide receiver in 2020. He was also a top-30 receiver in 2019 and 2018.
What Impact Does Calvin Ridley’s Arrival Have On Trevor Lawrence?
Meanwhile, the addition of Ridley has a massive impact on Lawrence’s dynasty value. The young quarterback has flashed tremendous talent this year but has also struggled at times. However, the addition of Ridley will give Lawrence an elite No. 1 receiver as he heads into his third year in the NFL in 2023.
Remember, Josh Allen struggled in his first two years before the Buffalo Bills traded for Stefon Diggs in year three. Similarly, Jalen Hurts has drastically improved this year after the Philadelphia Eagles added A.J. Brown in the offseason.
Ridley’s fantasy value improved with today’s trade. However, the biggest winner in the deal is Lawrence. Fantasy players should try to acquire the former No. 1 overall pick, as he could turn into a superstar quarterback next season.
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