In a significant roster shake-up, the Washington Commanders have traded defensive tackle John Ridgeway III to the New Orleans Saints. The deal, announced just moments before General Manager Adam Peters' scheduled press conference, involves Ridgeway and a 2025 seventh-round pick heading to New Orleans in exchange for a 2025 sixth-round pick.
A Brief History of Ridgeway
John Ridgeway III’s journey in the NFL has been anything but conventional. Originally selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft out of Arkansas, Ridgeway faced an early setback when he was waived after the season opener. Fortune smiled on him when the Washington Commanders picked him up off waivers. The defensive tackle quickly acclimatized to his new team, playing in 15 games during the 2022 season and starting four of them. His performance included 24 combined tackles and one forced fumble.
Fast forward to the 2023 season, Ridgeway continued to earn his keep with notable contributions, recording 31 tackles in 17 games, including two starts. His preseason performance against the New England Patriots was particularly impressive, with three tackles and two tackles for loss.
Trade Dynamics and Team Strategy
The Commanders have been actively tinkering with their roster, striving for a balance between seasoned experience and emerging talent. Despite Ridgeway's promising outings, the decision to trade him came as part of a wider strategy. The Commanders' initial 53-man lineup for the season already includes five defensive tackles, indicating a surplus at the position. This likely contributed to the decision to move Ridgeway and slightly improve their draft position by upgrading from a seventh-round pick to a sixth-rounder in 2025.
The Commanders also decided not to make any claims during the first waiver round this offseason. However, this did result in the loss of two potential practice squad targets: cornerback Tariq Castro-Fields and defensive end K.J. Henry. These moves are part of Washington’s broader efforts to refine and bolster their roster as they aim to reassert their presence in the upcoming NFL season.
New Beginnings in New Orleans
For Ridgeway, the move to New Orleans presents a fresh start. The Saints are optimistic that Ridgeway’s preseason prowess will translate into regular season success. Ridgeway will now have the opportunity to contribute in a system that better suits his style of play. General Manager Adam Peters alluded to this, stating, "Ridgeway will play in a scheme that fits him more, and will find more playing time."
Washington's decision to part with Ridgeway is not without risk. The defensive tackle’s departure means the Commanders will be closely monitoring his performance with the Saints. On the flip side, the trade offers Washington a chance to refine their strategy and perhaps shore up other positions of need with the slightly improved draft position.
The Road Ahead
The Commanders are not just looking at immediate gains but are focused on long-term performance. They aim to integrate fresh talent while maintaining a core of reliable veterans to navigate the grueling NFL season. As the season progresses, it will be critical to see how Washington's decisions in the trade and draft spheres pay off, particularly as they strive to enhance their competitive edge.
Meanwhile, Ridgeway’s journey with the Saints will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. If his preseason form is any indication, he could become a valuable asset for New Orleans. This trade serves as a poignant reminder of the fluidity of team rosters and the ongoing chess game between NFL franchises, each move intended to build the most competitive team possible.
Ultimately, the trade of John Ridgeway III signifies both an end and a new beginning, reflecting the ever-evolving dynamics of NFL team strategies as they prepare for the battles ahead.