Buffalo Bills eye Titans’ Calvin Ridley for much-needed wide receiver boost
The Buffalo Bills are facing a pressing issue as they look to strengthen their roster ahead of the playoff push. With their current wide receiver corps lacking a definitive number one option, analysts are suggesting a bold move that could provide the necessary firepower.
Addressing the Wide Receiver Quandary
Buffalo’s struggles at wide receiver are evident. Keon Coleman has yet to fulfill the expectations placed upon him, while Joshua Palmer’s performance has been disappointing, compounded by injury setbacks. Khalil Shakir, too, has not delivered the strong start the Bills had hoped for. With the competition intensifying among NFL offenses, it’s clear that Josh Allen and the Bills require a significant upgrade in their passing game.
In light of these challenges, Vinnie Iyer from The Sporting News has put forth a compelling recommendation: the Bills should pursue a trade for Calvin Ridley of the Tennessee Titans. Iyer believes that acquiring Ridley could represent the “best NFL trade deadline deal” for Buffalo.
Calvin Ridley’s Potential Impact
While Ridley is currently nursing a hamstring injury, which has sidelined him for at least one game, his situation with the Titans has become increasingly precarious. The team’s rebuilding phase, highlighted by the struggles of rookie quarterback Cam Ward, has left Ridley underutilized and misaligned with the franchise’s long-term vision.
Iyer notes, “Ridley would make more sense attached to a QB in Josh Allen who can push the ball deep well to him and also make him a red zone priority, much like he was during his young heyday with the Falcons.” This alignment could revitalize Ridley’s career, allowing him to return to the form that once positioned him as a superstar in the league.
A Trade That Makes Sense for Both Sides
With the Titans currently sitting at a dismal 1-6, the prospect of trading Ridley seems increasingly plausible. The franchise is likely looking to gather draft capital as they reshape their roster. At 30 years old, Ridley does not fit into Tennessee’s long-term plans, making him one of their most appealing trade assets. Moreover, the Titans could benefit from offloading his contract, further incentivizing a deal.
Despite his recent challenges, Ridley has shown the ability to perform at a high level. Over the past two seasons, he has recorded more than 1,000 receiving yards each year, including an impressive performance in 2024, despite the Titans’ struggles at quarterback.
Current Statistics and Outlook
As of now, Ridley has accumulated 290 receiving yards through six games, having missed Week 7 due to injury. If he can regain full health and find himself in a more favorable offensive situation, his potential to deliver impactful performances remains strong.
In summary, as the Bills look to enhance their playoff prospects, targeting Calvin Ridley could be a game-changing move. By acquiring a receiver with proven talent and the ability to thrive in a more effective system, Buffalo could solidify its position among the league’s elite teams.
