In an unexpected roster move, the Washington Commanders have traded defensive tackle John Ridgeway III to the New Orleans Saints. The trade, announced just before a scheduled press conference with Commanders general manager Adam Peters, sees Ridgeway and a 2025 seventh-round draft pick heading to New Orleans in exchange for a 2025 sixth-round pick.
This move marks the end of Ridgeway’s tenure with Washington, which began when the Commanders claimed him off waivers from the Dallas Cowboys. Originally selected by the Cowboys in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft out of Arkansas, Ridgeway was waived following the 2022 season opener. Washington quickly picked him up, and he went on to play in 15 games that season, starting in four. During his 2022 campaign, Ridgeway recorded 24 combined tackles and forced a fumble.
In the 2023 season, Ridgeway showed considerable growth, playing in 17 games and starting in two. He accumulated 31 tackles, displaying his potential as a key contributor in the defensive lineup. His preseason performance against the New England Patriots — where he notched three tackles and two tackles for loss — further underscored his abilities on the defensive front.
Despite his promising stats, the Commanders opted for a trade, influenced by their current roster composition. The team’s initial 53-man lineup boasts five defensive tackles, indicating depth at the position and possibly diminishing Ridgeway’s role. General Manager Adam Peters noted, "Ridgeway will play in a scheme that fits him more, and will find more playing time." This suggests that the Saints' defensive scheme might be better suited to Ridgeway’s strengths and likely affords him more opportunities on the field.
The trade reflects the Commanders' strategic efforts to refine and reinforce their team for the upcoming NFL season. By sending Ridgeway and a seventh-round pick to the Saints in exchange for a sixth-round pick, Washington gains a slightly better draft position. This could be instrumental as the team looks to balance seasoned experience with emerging talent, aiming to reassert its presence in the league.
The offseason has been an active period for Washington, highlighted by their decision not to make any claims during the first waiver round. Furthermore, they lost two potential practice squad targets, cornerback Tariq Castro-Fields and defensive end K.J. Henry. These moves are part of a broader strategy to ensure the team enters the new season with a well-rounded and competitive roster.
For Ridgeway, moving to the Saints offers a fresh start and a chance to leverage his preseason momentum into regular season success. The Saints will be watching closely, hoping his recent performances will translate into impactful play as they bolster their defensive unit. Ridgeway’s transition will be an important storyline as the season progresses, and the Saints have every reason to be optimistic about their new acquisition.
The Commanders' decision to trade Ridgeway underscores a proactive approach to roster management. By gaining a more favorable draft position and adjusting their lineup, they are setting the stage for a stronger presence in the competitive landscape of the NFL. As the season begins, all eyes will be on how these strategic moves play out on the field, both for the Commanders and their former defensive tackle now donning the black and gold of New Orleans.