In a significant development in the NFL, the Washington Commanders have decided to trade defensive tackle John Ridgeway III to the New Orleans Saints. The Commanders are sending Ridgeway and a 2025 seventh-round pick to New Orleans in exchange for a 2025 sixth-round pick. This transaction reflects Washington's ongoing efforts to refine its roster and enhance its prospects for the upcoming seasons.
The announcement of this trade emerged just before a scheduled press conference with Commanders general manager Adam Peters. Ridgeway's journey to this moment has been marked by notable changes and transitions. Originally selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft out of Arkansas, Ridgeway's stint with the Cowboys was short-lived. After the season opener, he was waived and subsequently picked up by Washington off waivers.
During the 2022 season, Ridgeway showcased his abilities by appearing in 15 games, starting in four of them. His contributions included 24 combined tackles and one forced fumble. The following season saw Ridgeway continue his steady performance, recording 31 tackles and two starts out of 17 games. His preseason performance against the New England Patriots was particularly notable, where he amassed three tackles and two tackles for loss, setting a tone for what the Saints will hope to be a promising addition to their defensive lineup.
Washington's decision to trade Ridgeway is also influenced by the composition of their current roster. The Commanders' initial 53-man lineup includes five defensive tackles, providing them with sufficient depth at the position. Furthermore, the team chose not to make any claims during the first waiver round this offseason, an indication of their satisfaction with their current roster configuration.
Despite losing two potential practice squad targets—cornerback Tariq Castro-Fields and defensive end K.J. Henry—Washington's management is focused on striking a balance between seasoned experience and emerging talent. The trade not only offers Ridgeway a fresh start in New Orleans but also provides Washington with a slightly better draft position, swapping a seventh-round pick for a sixth-round pick in 2025.
General Manager Adam Peters commented on Ridgeway's move and the fit within the Saints' scheme, stating, "Ridgeway will play in a scheme that fits him more, and will find more playing time." This statement underscores the strategic nature of the trade, aiming to place Ridgeway in a scenario where his skills can shine and contribute meaningfully to the Saints' defensive efforts.
For Ridgeway, the trade to New Orleans indeed presents a new chapter. The Saints, who have been closely monitoring Ridgeway's preseason performance, are hopeful that his momentum will continue into the regular season. A fresh start could provide Ridgeway with the opportunity to further develop his career and cement his place as a formidable defensive presence.
On the broader scale, the Commanders' active roster adjustments and strategic trades reflect their ambition to reassert their presence in the competitive NFL landscape. By improving their draft standings and fine-tuning their team composition, Washington demonstrates a clear intent to build a cohesive and capable unit ready for the challenges of the upcoming season.
As Ridgeway transitions to his new team, his performance in New Orleans will be closely monitored by both the Saints and Commanders' followers. This move, while representing a shift for Ridgeway, also signifies the ever-evolving dynamics of NFL team strategies, where each trade and roster change is a step toward greater competitiveness and success.