I think the odds of him coming back are getting dimmer and dimmer as we anticipate that real possibility of Baalke and Allen's camp dragging out his situation to where it will ultimately command a franchise tag.

The franchise tag was the only definitive tool this team had it's disposal to keep him locked in for 2024 and it doesn't feel like it's now a priority. Of course, it's all speculation and I could wake up tomorrow to a new deal worked out with the team and Allen, but, just doesn't seem likely.

My biggest concern is Ridley signing onto a team that will directly be our competition for a 7th seed or a direct competitor in a play-off contest. He could sign with say a team, like, the Bengals, the Chiefs or the Ravens. He could opt and probably go for more money on a team that's on the up and up potentially as well. For example, the Chargers with Herbert now and Harbaugh back in the NFL.

I would like to have him back. For many reasons already cited very earlier on in this thread. With my own figures thrown out there for comparison sake. However, if he opts not to come back here? I just hope it's for a team in the NFC instead of the AFC personally. If it's for money? It's probably the Panthers throwing a giant sum of money at him. Fine. Take it.

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