Toucher & Hardy: Is Calvin Ridley Worth the Big Bucks for the Titans?
This morning on Toucher & Hardy’s radio program, they were discussing Calvin Ridley’s surprise move to sign with the Tennessee Titans instead of the New England Patriots. Everyone seemed to think Ridley might end up with the Pats, but the Titans came out of nowhere with a fat $92 million deal over four years, including $50 million guaranteed. The guys talked about how the Patriots just aren’t the hot destination they used to be for top players. They questioned how Ridley would fit in with the Titans and whether he’d really help out their young QB, Will Levis and debated whether the Pats should focus more on developing their own talent and drafting receivers rather than splashing big cash on free agents.
WATCH HERE:
Fred questioned what Calvin Ridley would really bring to the table for the Patriots, doubting whether he’d truly improve their game. He pointed out potential issues, like Ridley possibly getting disgruntled with his hefty paycheck and not being utilized effectively as a top receiver when he’s more suited to a secondary role downfield.
“What does Calvin Ridley do for you? How does he make you better? I get that they have money to spend, and that you invest in tickets because you want to see the team succeed. But if Ridley joins, he’s likely to become discontent. He’d become the highest-paid player on the team, with a rookie quarterback throwing to him. Is he the best fit? He’s not like a reliable safety net; he’s more of a secondary downfield receiver. I don’t think that’s ideal for a young quarterback. Personally, I think the Titans made the right call paying him. Also, about the salary cap, yeah, it’s trending, but I’d rather have the money available for other needs. Being tied up with Calvin Ridley might not be the best move.”
Toucher also threw out the idea that splurging big bucks on Ridley might not be the smartest move, suggesting other ways the money could be better spent. He also brought up how the Patriots aren’t as attractive to top players anymore and stressed the importance of holding onto their own talent. In the end, he reckoned that building up the receiving squad through drafting and strategic pickups would make more sense.
“He (Ridley) wanted to play in Tennessee. They offered him more money they guaranteed him $50 million. I’d be perfectly fine having Kendrick Bourne is my second receiver, drafted and receiver and then drafting a receiver in next year’s draft and then hopefully being able to, you know, pick up like the best slot receiver two years from now or next offseason. now you got a receiving core.”
LISTEN HERE:
The definitive list of places to get a roast beef sandwich in Massachusetts
