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Falcons rookie Calvin Ridley on kickoff returns: 'I want to get the ball'

FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. -- Atlanta Falcons first-round draft pick Calvin Ridley wasn't initially expected to become an immediate contributor on special teams, but he's more than willing to fulfill the need if asked.

Falcons coach Dan Quinn mentioned during the offseason how Ridley could get a look at kickoff returner along with Justin Hardy, Marvin Hall, and fellow rookie Ito Smith. Such came to life in last Friday's preseason game against Kansas City Chiefs, when Ridley returned the opening kickoff 34 yards to help set up a touchdown.