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In 2024, the Tennessee Titans gave Calvin Ridley $92 million to be the go-to WR, but two years later, his most valuable role has nothing to do with his stats

Ridley has just three catches through four games, but Brian Daboll says the former 1,000-yard receiver is playing a major role in Carnell Tate’s rapid development.

By Austin Stanley · A to Z Sports

Published: Thursday, 8 October 2026 at 10:30 PM

Key Things to Know

Austin Stanley argues that Calvin Ridley's most valuable role for the Titans is serving as Carnell Tate's mentor.
Ridley has recorded just three receptions for 48 yards through four games in the 2026 NFL season.
Titans offensive coordinator Brian Daboll credited Ridley with helping Tate develop after the rookie's 145-yard performance.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Austin Stanley argues that Calvin Ridley's most crucial value to the Tennessee Titans is now mentoring rookie wide receiver Carnell Tate rather than posting elite statistics. Despite signing a four-year, $92 million contract in 2024, Ridley has managed just three catches for 48 yards through the first four games of the 2026 season.

Titans offensive coordinator Brian Daboll credited Ridley alongside position coach Greg Lewis for aiding the rapid development of Tate, who recently caught nine passes for 145 yards against Baltimore. Stanley notes that Ridley agreed to a pay cut saving Tennessee roughly $8 million and is embraced as a veteran leader.

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