Marcus Spears explains why Calvin Ridley's suspension could affect his future in the NFL. (1:32)
The fifth-year Atlanta Falcons wide receiver seemed to have a bright future, but it ended in turmoil. The NFL suspended him for a year for gambling on its games, meaning he won't be able to play in the 2022 season.
The former first-round pick has had a busy 10 months.
May 3, 2021, the team picked up his fifth-year option, guaranteeing him $11.1 million for the 2022 season.
The Falcons traded away receiver Julio Jones, making him the team's top receiver and, it seemed, all but guaranteed he would get a long-term extension.
June 15, 2021: Ridley spoke to the media about his foot surgery that kept him from on-field work.
The foot was declared healthy in training camp but did not participate in any preseason games.
He had a good day at practice with his daughter.
#GirlDad ❤️ pic.twitter.com/QJQ5tVHHZS
— Atlanta Falcons (@AtlantaFalcons) August 4, 2021
Ridley had five catches for 51 yards in the season opener.
The first touchdown of the season was scored by Ridley, who hauled in seven passes for 63 yards.
The team was getting ready to go to London for a game against the New York Jets, but Ridley declined to go because of a personal issue.
The Falcons had a bye week in October. He spoke with the media during that week and said that his issue was over.
The Miami Dolphins had a touchdown and four catches from Ridley. It was his last game of the season.
In the fourth quarter of Atlanta's home loss to the Carolina panthers, Ridley announced he was stepping away from the team indefinitely to work on his mental health. The Falcons supported him throughout the second half of the season, but they wouldn't comment other than saying they were supporting him.
The non- football injury list was put on by the Falcons.
In November, Ridley bets five days in a row and includes the Falcons to win.
The Falcons were told by the league that they were looking into the matter.
The National Football League announced a one-year suspension for Ridley for betting on football games.
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