In a notable roster development, the Washington Commanders have made a strategic decision to trade defensive tackle John Ridgeway III to the New Orleans Saints. This move involves the Commanders exchanging Ridgeway and a 2025 seventh-round pick for a 2025 sixth-round pick, enhancing their draft position for the future.
The news broke shortly before a scheduled press conference with Commanders general manager Adam Peters, who provided insight into the thought process behind the trade. "Ridgeway will play in a scheme that fits him more, and will find more playing time," Peters commented, indicating the team’s confidence that the move will be beneficial for both Ridgeway and the New Orleans Saints.
Ridgeway’s Journey
Originally drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft out of Arkansas, John Ridgeway III had a brief stint with his original team. He was waived after the season opener, only to be picked up by Washington off waivers. During the 2022 season, Ridgeway played in 15 games, starting in four, and managed to accumulate 24 combined tackles and one forced fumble.
The 2023 season saw Ridgeway participating in 17 games, with two starts, recording 31 tackles. His preseason performance this year was notable, especially against the New England Patriots, where he made three tackles and two tackles for loss. Despite these efforts, the Commanders’ roster adjustments led to his trade.
Washington’s Defensive Line Decisions
The Commanders’ decision to trade Ridgeway comes as they finalize their initial 53-man lineup, which includes five defensive tackles. This depth indicated stiff competition for Ridgeway to secure significant playing time. By moving Ridgeway now, Washington not only gains a slightly better draft position but also allows Ridgeway an opportunity to thrive in a different environment.
Further reflecting their strategy, Washington opted not to make any claims during the first waiver round this offseason. However, they did face some losses in potential practice squad targets, notably cornerback Tariq Castro-Fields and defensive end K.J. Henry. These decisions underscore the team's focus on refining and balancing their roster meticulously.
A Fresh Start in New Orleans
For Ridgeway, his transfer to New Orleans represents a new chapter. The Saints are keen on the potential he displayed, banking on his preseason performance translating into regular-season success. With the Saints' coaching and defensive scheme, Ridgeway is expected to find an environment more suited to his style of play, providing him a more substantial platform to showcase his abilities.
The Commanders’ Future Outlook
As for the Washington Commanders, they remain actively engaged in making roster adjustments to enhance team performance. Coach Ron Rivera and General Manager Adam Peters are evidently focused on blending seasoned experience with emerging talent to reassert the team’s presence in the forthcoming NFL season.
Ridgeway's performance in New Orleans will undoubtedly be observed with interest, not just by the Saints but by the Commanders' management and fans as well. The trade positions both teams to better meet their strategic needs, with Washington gaining a potentially valuable draft position and New Orleans securing a promising defensive asset.
This trade, reflective of the ever-evolving dynamics of NFL rosters, underscores the strategic moves franchises must make to maintain competitiveness. For John Ridgeway III, it’s a pivotal point in his career, setting the stage for what could be a defining season with his new team.