Jerod Mayo Reflects On Why Patriots Pursued Calvin Ridley

Calvin Ridley stood out as an intriguing offseason target for the New England Patriots. The team has long needed a standout wide receiver, and Ridley offered a fit.

The Patriots instead watched Ridley walk to the Tennessee Titans on a four-year deal just months after DeAndre Hopkins also opted to head to the AFC South club. Hopkins now resides with the Kansas City Chiefs while Ridley offers a top threat when the Patriots and Titans square off in Week 9.

Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo highlighted Ridley when previewing the matchup, alluding to New England’s interest in the talented pass-catcher.

“There’s no question, as you go through the film, #0, Ridley, there’s no question why he was one of the top free agents, and everyone wanted an opportunity to have him on their roster,” Mayo told reporters Wednesday, per team-provided transcript. “This is a guy who is heavily targeted. At the same time, he’s open a lot on film, sometimes doesn’t get the ball, but he is open a lot on film, and that’s going to be a challenge.”

Ridley hauled in 22 passes for 326 yards and a touchdown through Tennessee’s first seven games which saw the Titans struggles to a 1-6 clip.

The Patriots and Titans kick off in Tennessee on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET.