30 best college football wide receivers of the 21st century

21. Calvin Ridley – Alabama Crimson Tide

Another Alabama great comes in just as he’s starting to make a name for himself in the NFL. Calvin Ridley was ridiculous during his time in Tuscaloosa. Like Jeudy, Ridley earned himself immediate playing time under head coach Nico Saban. Unlike Jeudy, it didn’t take long for him to make a real impact in a meaningful game.

After losing an early game against Ole Miss, Alabama had a chance to lose their grip on the season when they were forced to go on the road to face No. 8 Georgia. Ridley would not be denied, catching five balls for 120 yards and a touchdown in a 38-10 drubbing. He kept producing in big moments. He had six catches and 90 yards in the Iron Bowl against Auburn, 102 yards in the SEC Championship against Florida and then eight catches, 138 yards and two touchdowns in the National Semifinal against Michigan State. Alabama didn’t need him in the National Championship Game as they sneaked past No. 1 Clemson.

Ridley had one of the better freshman seasons in memory. Alabama had so much talent throughout the rest of his career, but Ridley was still a contributor. He finished second in Alabama history in receptions with 224 and in touchdowns with 19. He had three very good seasons with the Crimson Tide. He had at least one reception in all 44 games of his career. He was one of the most explosive wideouts Alabama has ever seen and that’s saying something based on the talent that’s walked through the door there.