Falcons unlikely to receive 2nd-round pick from Calvin…

Falcons unlikely to receive 2nd-round pick from Calvin Ridley trade

Back in 2022, the Atlanta Falcons traded Calvin Ridley to the Jacksonville Jaguars in exchange for two draft picks. Atlanta received a fifth-round pick in 2023 and a conditional fourth-round pick in 2024, which could turn into a second-rounder if Ridley signs a contract extension with the Jags.

Per the conditions of the trade, the team is currently set to receive Jacksonville’s third-round pick since Ridley topped 75 catches and 1,000 receiving yards this season. However, Falcons fans hoping to see that pick turn into a second-rounder shouldn’t hold their breath.

While Jaguars general manager Trent Baalke sounds like he wants Ridley back, Jacksonville can avoid giving up a second-round pick if the team holds off on re-signing Ridley until after the new league year begins on March 13.

ESPN's Jeremy Fowler explains trade loophole:

Jacksonville’s third-round pick due to Atlanta turns into a second-rounder if Jacksonville extends Ridley’s contract. That’s why Jacksonville would need to wait until after the new league year begins to avoid giving up a second, because at that point any deal would be a free agency signing and not an extension. But that gives Ridley time to talk with other teams during the negotiating window, unless he and Jacksonville can work out a loose agreement and wait. — Jeremy Fowler, ESPN

Considering how much NFL teams value draft picks, there’s almost no scenario in which the Jaguars willingly give up a second-rounder. If Jacksonville were to use the franchise tag on Ridley, that also would not technically count as an extension.

Jaguars' 3rd-round pick is No. 79 overall

Should WR Calvin Ridley re-sign with Jacksonville, the Jaguars would owe a second-round pick to Atlanta — No. 48 overall — as part of the conditions from their trade last year. The Falcons currently have a third-round pick, No. 79 overall, via Jacksonville. https://t.co/0bLVyZZgsm

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 18, 2024

NFL fans on Twitter weigh in

If I’m Baalke I send the 2nd round pick to Atlanta for Calvin Ridley for 2 reasons:

– Jaguars already have to give up a 3rd. Make it a 2nd and you’ll get the 3rd back, Ridley is worth that difference.
– You could sign Ridley at a discounted price compared to letting him walk.

— Brady Podloski (@BpodNFL) February 19, 2024

Calvin Ridley would be my first pick for Patrick Mahomes, Michael Pittman Jr would be a good combination I feel as well.

— Chris Phillips (@ChrisRPhillips) February 19, 2024