In a noteworthy roster development, the Washington Commanders have finalized a trade that sends defensive tackle John Ridgeway III to the New Orleans Saints. The Commanders will part with Ridgeway and a 2025 seventh-round pick in exchange for a 2025 sixth-round pick, marking a strategic move for both franchises.
This decision, unveiled just before a scheduled press conference with Commanders General Manager Adam Peters, underscores Washington's active approach to refining their roster. Peters commented on the trade, stating, "Ridgeway will play in a scheme that fits him more, and will find more playing time." The move provides Ridgeway with a fresh start in New Orleans, where the Saints will hope his preseason performance translates into regular season success.
Selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft out of Arkansas, Ridgeway’s journey in the NFL has been anything but straightforward. After being waived following the 2022 season opener, Washington claimed Ridgeway off waivers. He went on to participate in 15 games during his rookie season, starting in four, and recorded 24 combined tackles and one forced fumble.
In the 2023 season, Ridgeway increased his contributions, notching 31 tackles and making two starts out of 17 games. His preseason performance against the New England Patriots was particularly notable as he recorded three tackles and two tackles for loss, flashing potential that the Saints are keen to capitalize on.
For the Commanders, who have an interesting mix of veteran presence and emerging talent, the trade represents a tactical adjustment. With a robust defensive line that includes five defensive tackles in their initial 53-man roster, Washington found an opportunity to bolster their draft capital by swapping a seventh-round pick for a slightly more advantageous sixth-round pick in 2025. This decision reflects a broader strategy to balance seasoned expertise with youthful potential.
Despite not making any claims during the first waiver round this offseason, the Commanders continue to actively manage their roster. They recently lost two practice squad targets—cornerback Tariq Castro-Fields and defensive end K.J. Henry—highlighting the ongoing challenges and competitive nature of roster building in the NFL.
As Ridgeway transitions to the New Orleans Saints, all eyes will be on his ability to integrate into a new defensive scheme and contribute effectively. The Saints, aiming to fortify their defensive line, see Ridgeway as a fitting piece in their system. His progress will be closely monitored as he seeks to build on his preseason momentum and carve out a significant role in New Orleans.
For Washington, the trade is also a signal of their intent to reassert dominance in the upcoming NFL season. By making deliberate roster adjustments, including trading Ridgeway, the Commanders are visibly committed to positioning themselves competitively.
In summary, John Ridgeway III's move to New Orleans signifies a notable shift for both the player and the involved teams. The Commanders’ decision to trade Ridgeway as part of their strategic roster management, and the Saints' hope that his preseason success can be a precursor to regular season impact, sets the stage for an intriguing NFL season ahead. Ridgeway’s performance under the Saints' banner will undoubtedly be a focal point as the regular season unfolds.