The disappointing season is over, time to pick yourself up, dust off, plan and execute for the next season. After that horrific 9-7 campaign time is ripe to fill the gaps in your lineup that are so apparent. That is where reinforcements come in handy, and Cowboys have set their sights on a wide receiver from the University of Alabama – Calvin Ridley.
To be perfectly honest, Dez Bryant isn’t getting any younger, and Cole Beasley and Terrance Williams have severely decreased their production. The next likely thing is that the Cowboys will lose Brice Butler in free agency which is exactly why the squad will have to make a move in the draft to strengthen that segment of the game. The bad spot here is to go in search of reinforcement at only one position, but once again, Cowboys are in luck because there are around 6-7 WR’s who could be first-round talents in this years draft, and the best of them might as well be Calvin Ridley.
This guy is 23-year old that measures in at 6-foot-1 and 190 lbs, and he has finished his 2017 season with 63 catches for 967 yards, and five touchdowns. Yes, these numbers aren’t as impressive as you would think for a first-round pick, but keep in mind that Ridley played in an offense at Alabama that isn’t run dominant, and didn’t get as many opportunities as other receivers. But let’s talk about his strengths. His main feature, which is desperately needed for Cowboys, is his playmaking ability plus he is a great route runner, as well as very good in the open field after the catch.
The biggest “drawbacks” that he has are his age and his slender frame. He is 23 after not graduating high school till he was 20 which is very uncommon for the most NFL draft prospects, and he is two years older than most first-round guys. As for his slender frame, he is 190 lbs which is the thing that could be a big concern at the next level. What would be interesting is whether his body is able to hold up and be durable enough when it meets punishment that wide receivers take in the NFL. But do not get this wrong, the positives far outweigh the negatives when Ridley is in question.
If Cowboys managed to snag Ridley in the draft, they will have an instant positive effect especially in their offense, where this man would boost their play threat to the wide receiver core that the team is severely lacking currently. One more thing will go in favor of Dallas franchise if they sign Ridley. They might reduce the attention from Dez Bryant if they play them both on the field at the same time. Ridley would draw a lot of attention to himself, and with that, he will allow Dez to face more 1 on 1 matchups and easier coverages. Plus there is that uncertainty with Dez and Cowboys, and Ridley would be a great insurance policy if Bryant and Dallas decide to part ways.
In the end, all is left to say is that if Dallas wants Ridley in the draft, they will need to move up some spots, and give up later round or future picks, but for a player of his caliber giving up picks, although risky, it would very well be worth it.
