In a substantial roster shake-up, the Washington Commanders are set to trade defensive tackle John Ridgeway III to the New Orleans Saints. This move sees Ridgeway journey to the Big Easy alongside a 2025 seventh-round draft pick, while the Commanders receive a 2025 sixth-round pick in return. The trade was disclosed just moments before a scheduled press conference featuring Commanders General Manager Adam Peters.
Background on John Ridgeway III
John Ridgeway III’s journey into the NFL came when he was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft out of Arkansas. Although he showed promise, Ridgeway was waived after the 2022 season opener. The Commanders quickly picked him off waivers, and he made a notable impact during his stint with the team. In the 2022 season, Ridgeway participated in 15 games and secured four starts. His efforts resulted in 24 combined tackles and one forced fumble, showcasing his potential as a solid defensive asset. The following 2023 season saw Ridgeway further his contributions with 31 tackles and two starts over 17 games.
Ridgeway’s Preseason Performance
This preseason, Ridgeway demonstrated his prowess against the New England Patriots, making three tackles and two tackles for loss. His performance did not go unnoticed and played a role in the trade decision. As the Commanders formulated their initial 53-man lineup, their roster already included five defensive tackles. Despite the depth, the Commanders decided to forgo any claims during the first waiver round this offseason.
Commanders’ Roster Adjustments
The Washington Commanders are in the midst of active roster adjustments aimed at refining and bolstering their team. Part of this strategy saw them lose two potential practice squad targets, cornerback Tariq Castro-Fields and defensive end K.J. Henry, due to claims by other teams. By trading Ridgeway, Washington aims to gain a slightly better draft position, achieving this by exchanging a seventh-rounder for a sixth-rounder in 2025. This strategic move aligns with the Commanders' pursuit of maintaining a balance of seasoned experience and emerging talent as they strive to reassert their presence in the upcoming NFL season.
A Fresh Start in New Orleans
Ridgeway’s move to New Orleans marks a fresh start and an opportunity to play in a scheme that may better suit his abilities. General Manager Adam Peters elaborated on this aspect, stating, "Ridgeway will play in a scheme that fits him more, and will find more playing time." This hope is shared by the Saints, who look forward to translating Ridgeway's impressive preseason performance into regular season success.
As Ridgeway transitions to his new team, all eyes will be on his performance in New Orleans. The Saints are optimistic that the addition of Ridgeway will strengthen their defensive line. Conversely, the Commanders' decision to trade Ridgeway is part of a broader strategy to maximize their roster's potential and secure a competitive edge in future drafts.
Conclusion
This trade exemplifies the kind of strategic maneuvering that defines the NFL off-season, where teams continually reassess and reconfigure their rosters to find the perfect balance. For John Ridgeway III, the upcoming season with the Saints offers a chance to elevate his game and make a considerable impact on the field. Meanwhile, the Washington Commanders will continue to refine their roster in hopes of a triumphant season ahead. Ridgeway’s progress will undoubtedly be a focal point for both teams and their respective fan bases as the 2023 NFL season unfolds.