New York Jets: Final 7-Round 2019 NFL mock draft continues quick rebuild

By Randy Gurzi | Apr 21, 2019

ATLANTA, GA - DECEMBER 01: Riley Ridley #8 of the Georgia Bulldogs catches a touchdown pass against Saivion Smith #4 of the Alabama Crimson Tide in the third quarter during the 2018 SEC Championship Game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on December 1, 2018 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /

3 of 6

Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

Round 3, Pick 68: Riley Ridley, WR, Georgia

After getting a premier edge rusher with their first pick, the Jets have to sit out the second round — they surrendered their pick in that round in the trade for Sam Darnold last year. At No. 68. they finally get to pick again and this time they get a new weapon for Darnold to use in the passing game with Riley Ridley out of Georgia.

Ridley’s older brother, Calvin Ridley, was a first-round pick of the Atlanta Falcons and had a great rookie season. Like his older brother, Riley is a precise route runner with incredibly soft hands. The difference is, the younger of the two Ridley’s is still very raw.

While at Georgia, Ridley only had 26 catches and four touchdowns entering this past season. He started to put it together near the end of 2017 and even played well against Alabama in the NCAA Championship game. He parlayed that into a solid junior campaign in which he had 559 yards receiving off 43 catches. Ridley’s best trait was his ability to make the big play, evidenced by his nine touchdowns.

An argument could be made for him to have remained in school for one more season, which could move him higher in the draft than this. Still, he has a bright future and could develop into a starter in the NFL.

Home/New York Jets