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NFL Preseason: 5 rookies to watch for Friday night

By George Stockburger

COLUMBUS, OH - NOVEMBER 26: Maurice Hurst #73 of the Michigan Wolverines sacks J.T. Barrett #16 of the Ohio State Buckeyes during the fourth quarter of their game at Ohio Stadium on November 26, 2016 in Columbus, Ohio. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)
COLUMBUS, OH - NOVEMBER 26: Maurice Hurst #73 of the Michigan Wolverines sacks J.T. Barrett #16 of the Ohio State Buckeyes during the fourth quarter of their game at Ohio Stadium on November 26, 2016 in Columbus, Ohio. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /
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ATLANTA, GA – JANUARY 08: Calvin Ridley #3 of the Alabama Crimson Tide is unable to make a catch in the end zone against Deandre Baker #18 of the Georgia Bulldogs in the CFP National Championship presented by AT&T at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on January 8, 2018 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Scott Cunningham/Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GA – JANUARY 08: Calvin Ridley #3 of the Alabama Crimson Tide is unable to make a catch in the end zone against Deandre Baker #18 of the Georgia Bulldogs in the CFP National Championship presented by AT&T at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on January 8, 2018 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Scott Cunningham/Getty Images) /

Calvin Ridley

Many considered Calvin Ridley to be the most pro-ready wide receiver in this years class and one of the better pass catchers to declare in recent years. That didn’t prevent a draft day slide down to 26th overall, right into the hands of Atlanta.

Atlanta has had some fantastic offenses in recent years, and the addition of Ridley rivals past groups as he pairs with Julio Jones, Austin Hooper, and a tandem of talented running backs.

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Ridley only had one 1,000 yard season at Alabama, but caught 19 touchdowns in three seasons. He’s as polished of a route runner you’ll find coming out of college football, and his 4.43 speed is legit. He’ll be reunited with offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian, who coached him at Alabama.

The rookie should have a chance to see significant playing time alongside Julio Jones and Mohammed Sanu. His only legitimate competition for the number three spot is Justin Hardy, who will eventually slot in nicely as the number four pass catcher.

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