Atlanta Falcons top ten options in free agency to replace Calvin Ridley

ORCHARD PARK, NY - NOVEMBER 24: John Brown #15 of the Buffalo Bills makes a touchdown pass reception during the fourth quarter against the Denver Broncos at New Era Field on November 24, 2019 in Orchard Park, New York. Buffalo defeats Denver 20-3. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images)
ORCHARD PARK, NY - NOVEMBER 24: John Brown #15 of the Buffalo Bills makes a touchdown pass reception during the fourth quarter against the Denver Broncos at New Era Field on November 24, 2019 in Orchard Park, New York. Buffalo defeats Denver 20-3. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images) /
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CINCINNATI, OHIO – JANUARY 03: Dez Bryant #88 and Marquise Brown #15 of the Baltimore Ravens are seen after the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paul Brown Stadium on January 03, 2021 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images)
CINCINNATI, OHIO – JANUARY 03: Dez Bryant #88 and Marquise Brown #15 of the Baltimore Ravens are seen after the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paul Brown Stadium on January 03, 2021 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images) /

5. Dez Bryant was a star receiver who had his career derailed because of an injury

Dez Bryant was a top receiver in the league last time he was healthy. A fact that many have forgotten considering Bryant lost two seasons to a torn Achilles and was a non-factor with the Baltimore Ravens.

The last time he was healthy Bryant had 838-receiving yards and managed to finish with six touchdowns on the year as well. Despite this Bryant hasn’t gotten another chance, this could be due to his outspoken personality or the two-year layoff.

However, the Falcons are in no position to be picky and desperately need to give Matt Ryan a target. Dez isn’t going to be anywhere close to the receiver he once was. But if Atlanta opted to sign him he would be the best active receiver on the roster.

Even a shell of himself Dez is better than Tajae Sharpe or Russell Gage. Gage in particular has been terribly disappointing failing to make key catches or to find separation with regularity.

Dez Bryant and the Atlanta Falcons are an odd match one that makes sense on paper. However, it would be surprising to see Atlanta bring the veteran in.