Calvin Ridley Rumors: Mike Evans and Co. On Jaguars’ WR Wishlist as Falcons’ Condition Impairs Re-Sign Intentions

Calvin Ridley’s status hangs on a thread. While Jacksonville Jaguars fans eagerly await Ridley’s return, their Atlanta counterparts are more interested in the outcome. The trade that brought Ridley to the Jaguars included a sneaky clause. It was that if he re-sign with Jacksonville, Atlanta Falcons receive a juicy draft pick as compensation. This means Falcons fans have a vested interest in the negotiations, hoping the Jaguars will keep Ridley.

So, while Duval faithful dream of Ridley hauling in touchdowns in teal next season, Atlanta supporters might be secretly cheering on a hefty contract offer. What will exactly happen? Who will they hire?

The Calvin Ridley re-signing puzzle

Falcons fans, hold your breath! This time, the NFL Rumors tweet suggests the Jacksonville Jaguars might prioritize affordability over Calvin Ridley’s talent. Remember that trade sending Ridley to Duval? It included a hidden gem: if re-signed, Atlanta snags the Jags’ juicy 2024 second-round pick. Now, because of that Mike Evans is on their list of potential candidates for the position. But will they hire Mike Evans?

Initially a conditional fourth-rounder, Ridley’s impressive 2023 bumped it to a third. Now, re-signing him could elevate it further, leaving the Jaguars with a tough call. The NFL Rumors page also reported, “The Jacksonville Jaguars are likely to go in another direction at WR rather than signing Calvin Ridley. If the re-sign Ridley they would owe the Atlanta Falcons a 2nd round pick.”

This unexpected twist transforms a simple re-signing into a strategic chess game. Now, the question remains, will they hire Mike Evans to save on the problems that they have at hand? What’s his status?

Will Mike Evans be the Jaguars’ next WR?

The future of Tampa Bay’s star wide receiver, Mike Evans also hangs in the balance as free agency approaches. Despite another stellar season alongside Baker Mayfield, his return is uncertain.

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Experts predict a hefty price tag of $25-$30 million annually, potentially exceeding the Buccaneers’ comfort zone. This is the reason why he has become a potential candidate for the Jaguars. While Evans desires to stay, the prohibitive cost of the franchise tag ($28.4 million) pushes it off the table.

Eventually, the financial equation will determine if Evans remains a vital weapon in Tampa Bay’s offensive arsenal or takes his talents elsewhere. What do you think?

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