Redskins: 2019 NFL Draft top 20 wide receiver big board
Riley Ridley was never particularly productive at Georgia, but his skill set is far better than his numbers appear to be. In the NFL, he could turn into a solid No. 2 receiver and work to get open constantly.
Ridley is one of the better route runners in this draft class. He has really good footwork and gets in and out of breaks fairly easily and smoothly. Thanks to that ability, he should be able to gain separation fairly easily even despite his decent at best athletic ability.
At the combine, Ridley didn’t do a lot to showcase his athleticism, running the 40-yard dash in 4.58 seconds and clocking a 7.22 in the 3-cone drill. Those times are both fine, but they pretty much back up what was shown on tape. Ridley will be able to get open with his route running ability, but he’s not going to be much of a speed threat. So, relying on him as much more than a No. 2 receiver wouldn’t be recommended.
Still, Ridley is a quality prospect and has NFL bloodlines. His brother, Calvin Ridley, was a first-round pick by the Atlanta Falcons last year and posted a quality first season. Riley isn’t quite as athletic as his brother was, but he still should have a shot at being a productive receiver in the right situation.
Ridley would be a nice target for the ‘Skins if they choose to trade down in Round 2. They could wait and see if he’s on the board in the third round, but it seems likely he’ll be chosen at the end of the second. Ridley has the necessary tools and frame (6-1, 199 pounds) to make an impact as a No. 2 guy. A team that already has an established No. 1 receiver maytake him and use him as a perfect complement.