After all the moves during last week's franchise tag window, the Patriots had one primary receiver target left on the board: Calvin Ridley. He was the last remaining game-changing pass catcher that seemed worth their while, and with the latest update regarding the Jaguars, their chances to land him appear stronger than ever.
Now that the legal tampering period is open and free agents can speak to any team they choose, Bills' free agent receiver Gabe Davis reportedly signed a 3-year deal with the Jaguars.
Many believe Ridley will be leaving the team, opening a big opportunity for the Patriots to swoop in and close a deal.
Sources: The #Jaguars are signing #Bills WR Gabe Davis to a 3-year deal.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 11, 2024
Just a few minutes later, Jeff Howe of The Athletic followed up that report with one of his own, shutting down the idea of Jacksonville ultimately moving off Ridley and suggesting the team is still working on retaining the receiver despite Davis' arrival.
The Jaguars have agreed to terms with WR Gabe Davis, but they're still hoping to retain WR Calvin Ridley, per source. Ridley has generated plenty of attention. @TheAthleticNFL
— Jeff Howe (@jeffphowe) March 11, 2024
Although that may be true, Ridley may still want out. The Patriots are in an excellent position to pay him and make him their WR1.
Some don't view him through that lens, but he could play that role in a place like New England, which would likely appeal to him, especially if that might not be the case with the Jaguars anymore.
The Patriots should make the move for Calvin Ridley ASAP
Because top talent at receiver has eluded them for so long, signing Ridley seems like the best option for the Patriots for the 2024 season. He's a free agent who will demand a hefty contract, but trading for a player of his or better caliber would almost certainly be far more expensive.
Unfortunately, that includes Tee Higgins, who might be more appealing due to his youth and potential. But in a case like this, you have to jump when you can, right?
The silver lining here is that the Patriots have some options despite the lack of free-agent receivers left available. They can make a move for Ridley now, or if they were considering trading away their second-rounder this year, then Higgins could be the right decision.
We'll have to wait and see.