In a move that's likely to reverberate through the NFL, the Washington Commanders have opted to trade defensive tackle John Ridgeway III to the New Orleans Saints. The trade includes Ridgeway and a 2025 seventh-round pick heading to the Saints in exchange for a 2025 sixth-round pick.
This significant roster decision was disclosed mere moments before Commanders General Manager Adam Peters was set to address the media. Peters offered a glimpse into the thought process behind the move, stating, "Ridgeway will play in a scheme that fits him more, and will find more playing time."
The Journey of John Ridgeway III
John Ridgeway III's journey to the NFL hasn't been without its challenges. Originally selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft out of Arkansas, Ridgeway's tenure with the Cowboys was short-lived. He was waived after the 2022 season opener, presenting an opportunity the Washington Commanders seized by picking him off waivers. During his time with Washington in the 2022 season, Ridgeway featured in 15 games, starting in four of them. Over those appearances, he accumulated 24 combined tackles and enforced one fumble.
Performance and Potential
The 2023 season saw Ridgeway take his game up a notch. He recorded 31 tackles over 17 games, starting two of them. His preseason highlight included a standout performance against the New England Patriots, where he notched three tackles and two tackles for loss. This performance underlined his potential and may have caught the eye of the Saints' scouting department.
Strategic Adjustments
For Washington, the trade signifies more than just moving a player. The Commanders' decision-making reflects a broader strategy aimed at fine-tuning their roster. Despite the loss of Ridgeway, Washington's initial 53-man lineup still features five defensive tackles, suggesting they feel confident in their depth at that position. Adding to their strategic maneuvers, the Commanders chose not to make any claims during the first waiver round this offseason, indicating a measured approach to their roster adjustments.
However, not all moves have gone in their favor. The Commanders saw two potential practice squad targets slip through their fingers—cornerback Tariq Castro-Fields and defensive end K.J. Henry were both lost, showcasing the challenges of maintaining depth in a competitive league.
Washington's Goals and the Road Ahead
Washington's aggressive moves are part of a broader goal to reassert their presence in the upcoming NFL season. By trading Ridgeway, the Commanders gain a slightly better draft position, upgrading from a seventh-round to a sixth-round pick in the 2025 draft. This slight improvement could prove beneficial as the team strives for a balance of seasoned experience and emerging talent.
A Fresh Start for Ridgeway
For John Ridgeway III, the move to New Orleans offers a fresh start. The Saints, hopeful that Ridgeway's preseason performance will translate into regular-season success, appear to offer a better fit for his playing style. As Peters noted, Ridgeway will now have the opportunity to "play in a scheme that fits him more, and will find more playing time."
Ridgeway's performance in New Orleans will be closely watched, not just by the Saints and their fans, but also by the Commanders, who will be paying attention to how their former player's career progresses.
As Washington continues refining and reinforcing their team, the overarching goal remains clear: to improve their standings and build a squad capable of making significant strides in the forthcoming NFL season. This trade, while a notable headline, is just one part of that larger narrative.