Calvin Ridley stepping away from football for mental health reasons

Atlanta Falcons receiver Calvin Ridley announced Sunday on Twitter that he is stepping away from football for mental health reasons. The fourth-year receiver out of Alabama had compiled 282 yards receiving and two touchdowns so far this season.

“These past few weeks have been very challenging and as much as I’d like to be on the football field competing with my teammates, I need to step away from football at this time and focus on my mental wellbeing,” Ridley said in a statement. “This will help me be the best version of myself now and in the future.

“I want to thank my teammates, the entire Atlanta Falcons organization, our great fans, my friends, and my family for all of their support during this time.”

Ridley did not play in Sunday’s game against the Carolina Panthers. He also missed a game in London against the New York Jets in Week 5 because of a personal matter. He returned in Week 7 following the Falcons bye and had four catches for 26 yards and a touchdown against Miami.

The former Crimson Tide star’s message seems to suggest he will return when he feels ready. When that time will come, however, is unknown.

The Falcons lost to the Panthers on Sunday to drop to 3-4 on the season. They are currently in last place in the NFC South standings.

Atlanta struggled to pass the ball without its top receiver Sunday. Tajae Sharpe led the team with five catches for 58 yards. Rookie tight end Kyle Pitts saw six targets but only caught two for 13 yards.

2017 was the last year the Falcons made the playoffs, and things don’t appear promising for 2021. For now, the most important thing is that Calvin Ridley is able to work out his mental health issues and return to the field soon. Once he does, he should instantly take back his role as the team’s top target.