Calvin Ridley: From suspension and injuries to Titans leader

Calvin Ridley: Titans Star Reborn

Tennessee Titans wide receiver Calvin Ridley is gearing up for his second season with the team, facing new challenges and with a renewed perspective. After overcoming injuries and mental health issues, including a gambling suspension that put his career on hold, Ridley feels stronger than ever. In an interview, Ridley shared details about the impact that stepping away from American football had on his life, his experience playing with a fractured foot in 2020, the lessons learned, and the gambling situation that kept him out of the 2022 season. Ridley, who is one of the five captains chosen by his teammates, has come a long way from what he considered his lowest point.

“The suspension gave me time to rest, improve physically, and strengthen my mind. After that year, I was ready to return,” Ridley said.

Calvin Ridley

The Falcons gave him time to recover from the foot injury and take care of his mental health, as well as allowing him to reconnect with his family. During a trip to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Ridley got involved in gambling with his younger brothers and friends, betting on college basketball and American football games. Then, the player placed bets on NFL games, unaware that he was breaking the rules. This situation prevented him from playing the rest of the season and, in March 2022, his suspension for betting was made official. Before the 2022 season’s trade deadline, Atlanta traded Ridley, who was suspended, to the Jacksonville Jaguars in exchange for conditional draft picks in 2023 and 2024.

“Soccer has been my job since I was a kid. That’s all I’ve done, man. I never had another job,” Ridley declared.

Calvin Ridley

Time away from the field taught Ridley how to manage his emotions. When he returned, he proved his worth by recording 76 receptions for 1,016 yards and eight touchdowns. The Jaguars tried to retain him, offering him a contract of around $20 million annually. However, Ridley chose to test the free agent market, signing a four-year, $92 million contract with the Titans. Despite a difficult season for Tennessee, Ridley finished with 1,017 yards and four touchdowns on 64 receptions.

“I learned a lot of tools during that process. I still use them today when things get tough. I don’t let myself fall too far. I eliminate bad thoughts, I refresh my mind every time I go home,” Ridley explained.

Calvin Ridley

Ridley’s return to Atlanta for joint practices with the Falcons evoked many emotions, especially upon returning to the place where it all began. Selected by Atlanta in the 2018 draft, Ridley had a great performance in 2020, with 1,374 yards, the ninth-most in franchise history. Ridley played most of the season with a foot fracture. The Falcons’ medical staff initially diagnosed the injury as a bone bruise, so Ridley turned to painkillers to keep playing. In 2021, Ridley realized something was wrong with his foot. After a new evaluation, the fracture was confirmed and he underwent surgery. The situation affected his confidence, and he began to question his ability to perform at the highest level. Additionally, the robbery at his home during the Falcons’ opening game against the Philadelphia Eagles, worsened the situation. Ridley requested time to recover mentally and physically, and was absent from the team to focus on his mental health.

“I’ve never felt like this before. Mental health is real,” Ridley stated.

Calvin Ridley

The arrival of young quarterback Cam Ward has revitalized Ridley, who now feels he must give his best to help the team. Both players shone in the preseason training. Ward praised Ridley, highlighting his skill and potential. Titans coach Brian Callahan highlighted Ridley’s commitment and his growth as a leader, emphasizing that he has earned the respect of his teammates.