Calvin Ridley: From suspension to Titans leader, mentally stronger

Calvin Ridley: Rebirth in Tennessee After Personal and Professional Challenges

Tennessee Titans wide receiver Calvin Ridley enters his second season with the team with a renewed perspective, leaving behind injuries and a path marked by mental health and a suspension for gambling that affected his career. Ridley, who is now one of the five captains voted by his teammates, has come a long way from what he considers his lowest point. In an interview, he shared how the suspension gave him the opportunity to rest, recover physically, and strengthen mentally, preparing him for his return to the field. The suspension for sports betting, which kept him away from the 2022 season, was a turning point. Ridley, at that time, was on a personal journey that included time for the rehabilitation of a foot injury and the care of his mental health. The recipient recounted how, on a trip to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, he got involved in basketball bets with his brothers and friends. Then, he extended his bets to college football games and NFL games, unaware that he was breaking the rules.

I downloaded the app without knowing I was breaking a rule or anything. Those were the only two NFL games I bet on.

Calvin Ridley

This situation led him to miss the rest of the season and subsequently receive a suspension. Before the 2022 trade deadline, he was transferred to the Jacksonville Jaguars. The time off the field allowed Ridley to learn to manage his emotions. Upon his return, he proved his worth, accumulating yards and touchdowns. Despite a contract offer from the Jaguars, he decided to explore the free agent market and signed a four-year, $92 million contract with the Titans. During his time with the Titans, Ridley has shown resilience, learning tools to face difficult moments. Currently, he focuses on maintaining a positive mindset and refreshing his mind regularly.

Titans receiver Calvin Ridley, 30, faces his second season in Tennessee with a better outlook after overcoming injuries and mental health issues, including a suspension for gambling that affected his career.Ridley’s return to Atlanta, where the Titans held joint practices with the Falcons, stirred emotions in the player. He remembered the effort dedicated to the Falcons and the feeling of being “discarded” without support. After being selected by Atlanta in the 2018 draft, Ridley had an outstanding performance, including a 1,374-yard season in 2020, despite playing with a foot injury. The injury, initially diagnosed as a hematoma, forced him to play in pain and resort to painkillers. In 2021, Ridley realized something was wrong with his foot. The team’s new medical structure determined he had a fracture. Despite surgery and his desire to take on the role of lead receiver, doubts began to arise due to the injury. The situation worsened when his house was robbed during the first game of the season against the Philadelphia Eagles. The situation affected his wife and daughter, and Ridley felt the weight of the situation. After several games, he decided to take some time to take care of his mental health. Ridley’s return to the Titans marks a new chapter. The arrival of young quarterback Cam Ward has revitalized his enthusiasm for the game. The connection between both players has been evident during training, promising a promising future for the team. Ward has praised Ridley, highlighting his skill and potential. Titans coach Brian Callahan has acknowledged Ridley’s hard work and leadership, emphasizing his growth and his deserved appointment as team captain.