The Jacksonville Jaguars made an odd move during the 2022 NFL trade deadline, picking up Calvin Ridley when he was already suspended for the entire season. The move paid off last year with Ridley recording over 1,000 receiving yards, but now he’s set for free agency, where the 29-year-old is expected to sign a massive contract.
But how much will Ridley sign for? One NFL insider recently provided some insight into the upcoming free agent market.
Jacksonville Jaguars may need to pay Calvin Ridley north of $20 million per season
The Jacksonville Jaguars made the trade for Calvin Ridley for a reason. They saw a chance to add an elite talent for a fraction of the typical cost. Plus, they had, and still have, a great need to improve the team’s receiving corps.
So, with Ridley now entering free agency, the Jaguars are expected to do their best to sign Ridley to a large extension. But as we’ve seen, it all depends on the price.
According to Albert Breer, Ridley could be set to command nearly $20 million per season as a free agent. The Jaguars rank in the middle of the pack in salary cap space, with just over $20 million to spend. This means, barring big changes, the Jaguars could have a tough time retaining their top receiver this offseason, yet there’s always a possibility Ridley signs a uniquely structured contract that has a lower salary in 2024 to help with the team’s budget.
Related: NFL insider reveals cost to trade for L’Jarius Sneed in expected departure from Kansas City Chiefs