In a notable roster shake-up, the Washington Commanders have traded defensive tackle John Ridgeway III to the New Orleans Saints. In exchange for Ridgeway and a 2025 seventh-round pick, the Commanders will receive a 2025 sixth-round pick from the Saints. This strategic move was revealed just moments before a scheduled press conference with Commanders' general manager, Adam Peters.
Career Journey and Early Struggles
John Ridgeway III’s NFL journey has seen its ups and downs since he was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft out of Arkansas. Despite being picked relatively early, Ridgeway was waived after the season opener. The Washington Commanders quickly seized the opportunity, picking him up off waivers, and Ridgeway's journey in Washington began.
Throughout the 2022 season, Ridgeway demonstrated his potential by playing in 15 games and starting in four. He accumulated 24 combined tackles and forced one fumble. This performance set the stage for his role in the 2023 season, where he recorded 31 tackles in 17 games, starting in two. His preseason showing against the New England Patriots, where he notched three tackles and two tackles for loss, further underscored his promise.
Commanders' Roster Decisions
The Commanders' decision to trade Ridgeway appears driven by their need to refine their roster. The team's initial 53-man lineup includes five defensive tackles, suggesting depth at the position. Furthermore, the Commanders chose not to make claims during the first waiver round this offseason, indicating a calculated approach to their roster adjustments.
However, the team did lose two potential practice squad targets, cornerback Tariq Castro-Fields and defensive end K.J. Henry, possibly influencing their decision to trade Ridgeway while enhancing their draft capital. By exchanging a seventh-round pick for a sixth-rounder in 2025, Washington gains a slight advantage for future drafts.
A Fresh Start in New Orleans
The trade to New Orleans presents a fresh start for John Ridgeway III. General Manager Adam Peters commented, “Ridgeway will play in a scheme that fits him more, and will find more playing time.” This indicates that New Orleans might offer a better environment for Ridgeway to flourish, capitalizing on his demonstrated defensive abilities.
The Saints are hopeful that Ridgeway’s preseason performance will seamlessly translate into regular-season success. Observers will be closely watching how he adapts and performs in his new scheme and surroundings. For Ridgeway, the opportunity to reset and add value to the Saints' defense could be a defining chapter in his young career.
Washington's Broader Strategy
The Washington Commanders are actively seeking to balance seasoned experience with emerging talent as they make roster adjustments aimed at reinforcing their team. The acquisition of a 2025 sixth-round pick adds a strategic benefit, allowing them slightly better draft positioning in the future.
With strategic trades and careful consideration of waiver claims, Washington aims to reassert its presence in the upcoming NFL season. The Commanders' management appears focused on crafting a competitive and robust lineup, keen on making a mark as the NFL season progresses.
John Ridgeway III's performance with the New Orleans Saints will be under the microscope, as both teams will be eager to see the trade's impact. For Ridgeway, it's a chance to leverage his skills in a favorable scheme and potentially secure a more stable and productive role. As the NFL season unfolds, all eyes will be on how this trade reshapes both teams' fortunes.