Ridley posted 44 receptions for 570 yards and nine touchdowns in 2018. It marks the second straight draft in which the Bears selected Georgia's leading receiver, this after they landed Javon Wims in the seventh round last year.
Ridley is the brother of Falcons receiver Calvin Ridley, a first-round pick in 2017.
"When you have an older brother that told me things and being positive and then you’re able to fulfill some of those things, it’s incredible to see a smile on his face," Riley Ridley said of Calvin.
The Bears hosted Ridley on a top-30 visit at Halas Hall, and it was there he learned of the team's strong interest in drafting him. The 6-foot-1 Ridley was considered a value pick at the fourth round, with many projections believing he would be chosen on Day 2 of the draft.
The Bears are crowded at receiver with veterans like Allen Robinson and Taylor Gabriel plus second-year target Anthony Miller, among others.