In a significant roster move, the Washington Commanders have decided to trade defensive tackle John Ridgeway III to the New Orleans Saints. As part of the deal, Washington will also send a 2025 seventh-round pick to New Orleans in exchange for a 2025 sixth-round pick. The decision to trade Ridgeway was revealed just moments before a scheduled press conference with the Commanders' General Manager Adam Peters.
John Ridgeway III, who was initially selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft out of Arkansas, has had a tumultuous start to his NFL career. Following the 2022 season opener, Ridgeway was waived by the Cowboys and subsequently picked up by Washington off waivers. In his first season with the Commanders, Ridgeway participated in 15 games, starting in four, and accumulated 24 combined tackles along with one forced fumble. His performance showed potential, but evidently not enough to secure his spot on the Commanders' evolving roster.
During the 2023 season, Ridgeway's contributions continued to grow. He recorded 31 tackles and started in two out of 17 games. Additionally, his preseason performance against the New England Patriots was notable, as he recorded three tackles and two tackles for loss. Despite these commendable stats, the Commanders decided to make a move that would not only give Ridgeway a fresh start but also slightly improve their draft positioning.
The trade comes at a time when the Commanders are keen on refining and reinforcing their team. Peters emphasized the need for balance, stating, "Ridgeway will play in a scheme that fits him more, and will find more playing time." This suggests that Ridgeway's talents may have been underutilized or misaligned with Washington’s defensive strategies. A fresh start in New Orleans offers Ridgeway an opportunity to capitalize on his potential in a scheme more suited to his skills.
Washington's current defensive lineup includes five defensive tackles, indicating a robust depth at the position. This depth likely made Ridgeway's departure feasible and underscores the Commanders' pursuit of achieving a mix of seasoned experience and emerging talent. Despite losing two potential practice squad targets in cornerback Tariq Castro-Fields and defensive end K.J. Henry, Washington did not make any claims during the first waiver round this offseason, maintaining their existing squad structure.
Ridgeway's move to New Orleans will be closely monitored by both Commanders and Saints supporters. The Saints are hopeful that his preseason performance can translate into regular-season success, adding a formidable presence to their defensive lineup. For Ridgeway, this is an opportunity to prove his worth and secure a more consistent role on the field.
Meanwhile, the Commanders gain a slightly improved draft position, exchanging their seventh-round pick for a sixth-rounder in the 2025 draft. This strategic move aligns with Washington's broader goal of reasserting their presence in the upcoming NFL season. By making such calculated roster adjustments, the Commanders are clearly focusing on long-term success and stability.
As the curtain rises on the new chapter for John Ridgeway III, fans and analysts alike will be watching to see how his journey unfolds with the Saints. His performance will undoubtedly reflect not only on his personal growth but also on the strategic decisions made by both the Washington Commanders and the New Orleans Saints. The NFL, ever a stage for talent and strategy, will witness yet another transformation as Ridgeway seeks to make his mark in New Orleans.