The New Orleans Saints are entering the offseason with some critical decisions to make regarding their offensive line, a unit that experienced its share of ups and downs last year. While tackles Kelvin Banks Jr. and Taliese Fuaga shone brightly, the interior line faced challenges.
The left guard spot was a carousel of players, and right guard Cesar Ruiz struggled throughout the offseason. Center Erik McCoy was sidelined for much of the season, leaving backup Luke Fortner to step up admirably.
However, with Fortner now out of contract, the Saints face a pivotal moment.
Re-signing Fortner is an option, but the Saints might benefit from exploring new avenues. The team has been down this road before, recalling the unexpected early retirement of franchise lineman Ryan Ramczyk due to injuries.
This serves as a reminder that assuming longevity for star players like McCoy, who turns 29 next season, can be risky. Another injury-laden season could force both McCoy and the Saints to reevaluate their future together.
Preparing for such scenarios by investing in a young center could be a wise move.
In free agency, options like former Packer Sean Rhyan offer a budget-friendly solution, while Tyler Linderbaum represents a pricier alternative. However, both would necessitate an immediate departure from McCoy, making the draft a more strategic choice.
The upcoming draft may not be brimming with elite center prospects, but Connor Lew and Sam Hecht stand out as potential third or fourth-round selections. While this may seem like a significant investment, especially if the rookie doesn’t start immediately, it’s a proactive step for the Saints. These young players could provide valuable depth and be ready to step in if McCoy faces further injuries, ensuring the team is prepared for any eventuality on the offensive line.