In a significant roster move, the Washington Commanders have decided to trade defensive tackle John Ridgeway III to the New Orleans Saints. The Commanders are sending Ridgeway along with a 2025 seventh-round pick in exchange for the Saints' 2025 sixth-round pick. The trade decision was revealed just moments before a scheduled press conference with Commanders general manager Adam Peters, adding an element of surprise to the announcement.
Originally selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft, Ridgeway entered the NFL out of Arkansas. However, his journey has been anything but steady. Waived after the Cowboys’ 2022 season opener, Ridgeway found a new home in Washington, where he was picked off waivers. Despite the tumultuous start, Ridgeway managed to make his presence felt on the field.
Ridgeway's Role in Washington
During the 2022 season, Ridgeway featured in 15 games and started in four. He accumulated 24 combined tackles and forced one fumble, demonstrating his ability to be a disruptive force on the defensive line. The 2023 season saw him further solidify his role, recording 31 tackles and earning two starts across 17 games. Notably, his preseason performance against the New England Patriots was impressive, tallying three tackles and two tackles for loss.
Heading into the off-season, the Commanders' initial 53-man lineup included five defensive tackles, showing the team's depth at the position. Despite opting not to make any claims during the first waiver round, the Commanders couldn't overlook the opportunity to tweak their lineup even further.
The loss of Ridgeway does mean the Commanders have also lost two potential practice squad targets: cornerback Tariq Castro-Fields and defensive end K.J. Henry. General Manager Adam Peters acknowledged this balancing act, emphasizing that the trade benefits both Ridgeway and the Commanders. "Ridgeway will play in a scheme that fits him more, and will find more playing time," Peters mentioned during the press conference.
A Fresh Start in New Orleans
The move to New Orleans offers Ridgeway a fresh slate and the chance to prove his mettle in a new scheme better suited to his play style. The Saints will be hoping that his preseason performance can translate into regular-season success, bolstering their defensive lineup. Ridgeway’s ability to disrupt plays and add depth at the tackle position will be closely watched as the season progresses.
For Washington, this trade is part of an ongoing strategy to refine and reinforce their team. By exchanging a seventh-round pick for a sixth-rounder in 2025, the Commanders gain a slight edge in draft positioning, which could be pivotal in future team-building efforts. These roster adjustments are indicative of the Commanders' keen eye towards balancing seasoned experience with emerging talent.
Commanders' Strategic Roster Adjustments
Washington has made it clear that they aim to reassert their presence in the upcoming NFL season. The trade of Ridgeway is just one step in a broader plan to enhance team performance and depth. By continuously evaluating and adjusting their roster, the Commanders are positioning themselves to be competitive in a league where adaptability is key to success.
As the Commanders continue their preparations for the new season, all eyes will be on how Ridgeway adapts to his new role in New Orleans and how the additional draft capital acquired by Washington will be leveraged. This strategic trade exemplifies the fluid nature of NFL roster management and the perpetual quest for improvement that defines successful franchises.