In a dynamic move to refine their roster, the Washington Commanders have traded defensive tackle John Ridgeway III to the New Orleans Saints. This strategic adjustment also sees the Commanders parting with a 2025 seventh-round pick, receiving a 2025 sixth-round pick in return. The trade announcement was made just before a scheduled press conference with Commanders general manager Adam Peters.
John Ridgeway III's journey to New Orleans marks another chapter in his evolving NFL career. Originally drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft out of Arkansas, Ridgeway’s stint with Dallas was brief, being waived after the season opener. The Commanders then picked him off waivers, and he quickly became a notable presence on their defensive line. In the 2022 season, Ridgeway played in 15 games and started in four, accumulating 24 combined tackles and one forced fumble. His performance showed improvement in the 2023 season, where he recorded 31 tackles and two starts out of 17 games. Notably, Ridgeway’s preseason performance against the New England Patriots, where he logged three tackles and two tackles for loss, showcased his potential.
Despite Ridgeway's contributions, the Commanders’ initial 53-man lineup already includes five defensive tackles, indicating a surplus in that position. This depth allowed Washington the flexibility to trade Ridgeway without compromising their defensive strength. As Peters noted, "Ridgeway will play in a scheme that fits him more, and will find more playing time," signaling that the move could benefit both Ridgeway and his new team, the Saints.
This trade also reflects Washington's strategy of fine-tuning their roster to optimize performance and build a balanced team. Despite losing two potential practice squad targets, cornerback Tariq Castro-Fields and defensive end K.J. Henry, the Commanders have not made any claims during the first waiver round this offseason. Instead, they appear focused on maximizing their draft positions and ensuring their lineup combines seasoned experience with emerging talent. The exchange of a seventh-round pick for a sixth-rounder in 2025 slightly enhances their future draft position.
For Ridgeway, the move to New Orleans represents a fresh start and a chance to further develop his skills in a potentially better-fitting defensive scheme. The Saints are undoubtedly hoping that his promising preseason form can be translated into regular season success, contributing to their defensive lineup. Ridgeway's performance in New Orleans will be closely observed by both teams, as his development could be a pivotal factor in the Saints' defensive strategies.
The Commanders are actively working to reassert their presence in the upcoming NFL season. This involves making calculated trades and roster adjustments to bolster their chances. The trade of John Ridgeway III is just one of the moves aimed at achieving this balance. As the new season approaches, both teams will watch closely to see how these changes impact their performance on the field.
In summary, the trade of John Ridgeway III to the New Orleans Saints signifies a strategic shift for the Washington Commanders, reflective of their commitment to precise roster management and long-term team development. It provides Ridgeway with an opportunity to thrive in a new environment, while the Commanders benefit from a slightly better draft position and maintained depth in their defensive lineup.