Could Brian Daboll Be the Key to Calvin Ridley’s Future in Tennessee?
There’s a growing expectation around the league that Calvin Ridley’s time with the Tennessee Titans could be coming to an end. After signing a four-year, $92 million deal under former GM Ran Carthon, Ridley hasn’t quite lived up to the billing - a combination of injuries and underwhelming production has left the Titans with a tough decision to make. With a new front office in place and cap space on the line, parting ways with Ridley this offseason would offer Tennessee some financial flexibility.
But it’s not that simple.
Ridley, despite the inconsistencies, remains the most experienced and accomplished receiver on the Titans’ roster. And with rookie quarterback Cam Ward entering a critical developmental phase, stripping away his most proven target could complicate the offense’s evolution. That’s where newly hired offensive coordinator Brian Daboll enters the equation - and potentially shifts the narrative.
A Familiar Face in a New Place
Daboll’s arrival in Nashville brings more than just a fresh offensive mind. It also reconnects him with Ridley, whom he coached during the 2017 season at Alabama. That year, Daboll served as the Crimson Tide’s offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach, guiding Ridley through his final collegiate campaign.
While Ridley’s numbers under Daboll - 63 catches, 967 yards, and five touchdowns - weren’t career highs across the board, they came in a run-heavy Alabama system and still showcased his ability to be a reliable, explosive playmaker. That season helped solidify Ridley as a first-round NFL Draft pick in 2018.
Now, nearly a decade later, the two could be reunited in a pivotal moment for both.
Daboll’s Track Record with Quarterbacks - and Why That Matters
Daboll’s coaching résumé speaks volumes, especially when it comes to quarterback development. His most notable success came during his time with the Buffalo Bills, where he played a central role in transforming Josh Allen from a raw, toolsy prospect into a full-fledged MVP-caliber quarterback. That kind of developmental leap doesn’t happen by accident - it’s the product of tailored scheming, player-specific coaching, and building trust between the play-caller and his QB.
That’s exactly what the Titans are hoping Daboll can replicate with Cam Ward.
But to do that, he’ll need weapons. And while Tennessee will undoubtedly explore the receiver market this offseason, there’s a case to be made for keeping Ridley in the fold - especially if Daboll believes he can reignite the wideout’s production.
A Decision That Goes Beyond the Numbers
Statistically, Ridley didn’t meet expectations in 2025. But context matters.
Injuries played a role, and the Titans’ offense as a whole lacked rhythm and identity. With Daboll now tasked with reshaping that unit, Ridley could benefit from a more structured, quarterback-friendly system - the kind of environment where his route-running and experience could once again shine.
It’s also worth noting that Ridley isn’t just another veteran receiver. He’s someone Daboll knows, trusts, and has coached before. That kind of familiarity can go a long way in a locker room, especially when trying to build a new offensive culture.
What’s Next?
Nothing is set in stone yet. GM Mike Borgonzi has some tough calls to make, and Ridley’s contract remains a significant factor in the offseason calculus.
But Daboll’s presence adds a new wrinkle to the situation. If he believes Ridley can still be a difference-maker - and if he sees value in maintaining some continuity for Ward’s development - the Titans may opt to give the veteran receiver another shot.
This isn’t just about cap savings or stats on a spreadsheet. It’s about building an offense that can grow with its young quarterback. And sometimes, the right coach-player connection can be enough to tip the scales.
Ridley’s future in Tennessee is uncertain. But with Brian Daboll now in the building, it might not be as cut and dry as it once seemed.