John Ridgeway Bio
John Robert Ridgeway III is an American professional football defensive tackle for the New Orleans Saints of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Illinois State Redbirds and Arkansas Razorbacks and was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft. Ridgeway has also played for the Washington Commanders.
Early Life and Background
John Ridgeway was born on May 7, 1999, in Bloomington, Illinois. He grew up in Bloomington and attended Bloomington High School, where he played both offensive tackle and defensive tackle on the football team. In addition to football, he competed in shot put and discus on the track and field team and was a four-year letter winner on the wrestling team. Ridgeway earned recognition as a first-team All-Big Twelve Conference player on offense and first-team All-State on defense during his senior year. He also won the state heavyweight wrestling championship, showcasing his athletic versatility. Ridgeway began his collegiate career at Illinois State University, where he redshirted as a true freshman. During his redshirt season, he focused on developing his skills as a defensive tackle after initially being recruited for the offensive line. He made a significant impact in his first active season, earning a spot on the Missouri Valley Football Conference (MVFC) All-Newcomer team after recording 30 tackles and one sack.
Path to American Football
After his time at Illinois State, Ridgeway transferred to the University of Arkansas for his final collegiate season. At Arkansas, he was named the starting nose guard going into the 2021 season, although he missed the season opener due to an appendectomy. He finished the season with 39 tackles, two sacks, and four tackles for loss, contributing to Arkansas’s successful season, which included a ranking of #21 in the AP Poll after winning the 2022 Outback Bowl against Penn State. Following this successful season, Ridgeway declared for the 2022 NFL Draft.
John Ridgeway Career
Early Career (2022)
John Ridgeway was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft, being the 178th overall pick. However, his time with the Cowboys was short-lived as he was waived on September 17, 2022. Shortly thereafter, he was claimed off waivers by the Washington Commanders on September 19, 2022.
Breakthrough (2022–2024)
Ridgeway made his debut with the Washington Commanders, appearing in 15 games during his first season and starting in four of them. He recorded 24 tackles, one forced fumble, and one pass defensed. His performance included a notable play where he forced a fumble against tight end Dallas Goedert, which was recovered by linebacker Jamin Davis, contributing to a victory over the previously undefeated Philadelphia Eagles. In 2023, Ridgeway continued to build on his success, appearing in all 17 games with two starts. He achieved a career-best 31 tackles, with a standout performance in Week 7 against the New York Giants, where he recorded six tackles. On August 28, 2024, Ridgeway was traded to the New Orleans Saints, where he has continued to develop his skills. In 2024, he played in 13 games, making 15 tackles and contributing on special teams, including a blocked kick against the Atlanta Falcons.
Notable Works and Milestones
John Ridgeway’s signature work includes his time at the University of Arkansas, where he made a significant impact in his final collegiate season. He has been recognized for his defensive capabilities and versatility on the field, contributing to his teams’ successes in both college and professional football.
John Ridgeway Award Nominations
Throughout his career, John Ridgeway has received recognition for his performance on the field, including being named first-team All-MVFC in 2020 during his time at Illinois State.
John Ridgeway Awards Won
John Ridgeway has won the first-team All-MVFC award in 2020, highlighting his exceptional performance during that season.
John Ridgeway Family
Information regarding John Ridgeway’s family is not publicly available.
Personal Life
Details about John Ridgeway’s personal life, including marital status and children, are not publicly disclosed.
