In a strategic move to bolster their roster, the Washington Commanders have traded defensive tackle John Ridgeway III to the New Orleans Saints. The Commanders are sending Ridgeway, along with a 2025 seventh-round pick, in exchange for a 2025 sixth-round pick. This decision was disclosed shortly before the Commanders' General Manager Adam Peters was slated to address the media at a press conference.
Ridgeway’s Journey
John Ridgeway III entered the NFL spotlight after being drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft out of Arkansas. However, his stint with the Cowboys was short-lived as he was waived after the season opener. Quickly scooped up by Washington off waivers, Ridgeway became a solid contributor for the Commanders. In the 2022 season, he played in 15 games, starting in four, and compiled 24 combined tackles along with one forced fumble. His performance was noted as a promising start for the young defensive lineman.
During the 2023 season, Ridgeway displayed improvements, recording 31 tackles and starting in two out of 17 games. His preseason performance against the New England Patriots was particularly noteworthy, with three tackles and two tackles for loss, showcasing his potential impact on the field.
Washington's Strategic Moves
The Commanders’ initial 53-man roster featured five defensive tackles, signaling a depth at the position that may have made Ridgeway more expendable. Additionally, Washington did not make any claims during the first waiver round this offseason, instead focusing on adjusting their roster through trades and other strategic decisions.
The Commanders have also experienced some losses, such as potential practice squad candidates cornerback Tariq Castro-Fields and defensive end K.J. Henry. Despite these setbacks, the team remains committed to refining and reinforcing its lineup as it aims to reassert its presence in the upcoming NFL season. The trade not only frees up space but also secures a slightly better draft position by exchanging a seventh-round pick for a sixth-rounder in 2025.
New Beginnings in New Orleans
For Ridgeway, the move to New Orleans presents a fresh start. The Saints will be banking on the defensive tackle’s preseason performance translating into regular season success. "Ridgeway will play in a scheme that fits him more, and will find more playing time," General Manager Adam Peters remarked, hinting at a potentially larger role for Ridgeway in the Saints' defensive scheme.
The Saints' coaching staff will be keenly observing Ridgeway’s integration into their defensive lineup, hoping he can replicate or surpass his preseason success as the regular season progresses. His ability to make significant defensive contributions will be pivotal for a Saints’ team aiming to enhance their defensive solidity.
Washington’s Long Game
With this trade, the Commanders continue their strategic roster management, balancing experienced players with emerging talent. By freeing up Ridgeway, the team can explore other prospects while keeping an eye on future draft benefits. As the season unfolds, the Commanders will be evaluated on how well these calculated adjustments play out on the field.
The fans and analysts alike will be closely watching how John Ridgeway III’s career develops in New Orleans, alongside monitoring Washington's overall performance and strategic decisions. In the end, this trade reflects both teams' aspirations to optimize their rosters and achieve enhanced results in the competitive landscape of the NFL.