In a noteworthy shakeup, the Washington Commanders have elected to trade defensive tackle John Ridgeway III to the New Orleans Saints. The transaction involves sending Ridgeway and a 2025 seventh-round pick to the Saints in exchange for a 2025 sixth-round pick, reflecting the Commanders' strategy of refining and reinforcing their roster for the upcoming NFL season.
The timing of the announcement added an element of surprise, with the decision being unveiled just before a scheduled press conference with Commanders general manager Adam Peters. Peters commented on Ridgeway's potential fit within the Saints' defensive scheme, saying, "Ridgeway will play in a scheme that fits him more, and will find more playing time."
Ridgeway, a product of Arkansas, entered the NFL landscape when the Dallas Cowboys selected him in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft. His journey with the Cowboys was short-lived, as he was waived after the season opener. The Commanders seized the opportunity, claiming Ridgeway off waivers soon after.
During the 2022 season, Ridgeway appeared in 15 games, starting in four of them. He managed to compile 24 combined tackles and forced one fumble, showcasing his potential to impact the game defensively. The following season, Ridgeway's involvement increased further. He recorded 31 tackles and started in two out of the 17 games he played.
Ridgeway’s talents were further highlighted during a preseason matchup against the New England Patriots, where he logged three tackles and two tackles for loss. However, despite his on-field contributions, the Commanders decided to include him in a trade as part of their broader roster strategy.
The Commanders’ initial 53-man lineup now includes five defensive tackles, and despite these changes, they opted not to make any claims during the first waiver round this offseason. Additionally, they faced the setback of losing two potential practice squad targets: cornerback Tariq Castro-Fields and defensive end K.J. Henry.
This move to New Orleans offers Ridgeway a fresh start, and the Saints are hopeful that his preseason performance against the Patriots will translate into regular season success. Ridgeway's role and performance in New Orleans will be closely monitored as the Saints aim to leverage his abilities to strengthen their defense.
For Washington, the trade represents a slight upgrade in draft positioning. By exchanging a seventh-round pick for a sixth-rounder in 2025, the Commanders gain a marginal advantage that could prove beneficial in future draft strategy. The team is actively pursuing a balance of seasoned experience and emerging talent, striving to reassert their presence in the NFL.
The decision to trade Ridgeway highlights Washington's commitment to fine-tuning their roster with an eye on both immediate and long-term goals. His departure, coupled with the acquisition of a better draft pick, underscores the Commanders' strategic maneuvers as they gear up for the new season.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Ridgeway’s transition to a new team and how effectively he can adapt and thrive within the Saints' defensive framework. Meanwhile, the Commanders will continue to make calculated adjustments, showcasing their proactive approach to building a competitive and robust lineup.
John Ridgeway III's journey now takes him to New Orleans, a new chapter marked by potential and opportunity. The Saints, in acquiring Ridgeway, are betting on his capability to bolster their defense, hoping that his previous performances are just a precursor to what he can achieve in their scheme. The Commanders, on the other hand, remain focused on their goal of creating a well-rounded team poised for success in the seasons ahead.