Atlanta Falcons star wide receiver Calvin Ridley announced in a statement on Twitter that he is stepping away from football to focus on his “mental wellbeing.”

Ridley’s statement read: “These past few weeks have been very challenging and as much as I’d like to be on the field competing with my teammates, I need to step away from football at this time and focus on my mental wellbeing. This will help me be the best version of myself now and in the future. I want to thank my teammates, the entire Atlanta Falcons organization, our great fans, my friends, and my family for all of their support during this time.”

The 26-year-old Ridley was inactive for Sunday’s matchup with the Carolina Panthers due to a personal matter. Ridley also didn’t travel with the team to London for their Week 5 game against the New York Jets due to a personal matter. Following a bye week, Ridley returned against the Miami Dolphins in Week 7. In his fourth NFL season, Ridley has recorded 31 receptions for 281 yards and two touchdowns over five games.

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