The New Orleans Saints head into the offseason with one glaring issue that’s hard to ignore: the interior of their offensive line. Specifically, guard play was a major problem in 2025, and it’s something that needs to be addressed if this team wants to take a step forward next season.
Let’s put it bluntly-both starting guards, Cesar Ruiz and Dillion Radunz, struggled mightily. Ruiz posted a Pro Football Focus grade of 55.1, while Radunz came in even lower at 48.5.
Those aren’t just below average-those are the kind of numbers that drag down an entire offensive line, no matter how solid the tackles are. And that’s exactly what happened in New Orleans.
Despite promising play from rookie left tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. and a solid showing from Taliese Fuaga, the Saints' offensive line ranked 25th in the league. Only the Cardinals graded out worse in the NFC.
So, how do the Saints fix it?
One name that’s been floated is David Edwards, the former Buffalo Bills guard. Edwards earned a 70.3 grade from PFF in 2025, which would have made him the highest-graded guard on the Saints by a wide margin. At 29 years old heading into next season, Edwards still has plenty of tread on the tires, and he fits the mold of a player who can contribute immediately without skewing the roster’s age curve too far north.
But here’s the catch-he won’t come cheap. Edwards is projected to command around $19.9 million annually.
That’s a hefty chunk of change, especially when you consider it would eat up roughly 72% of the Saints’ projected cap space. If they go that route, it’s essentially a one-move offseason, and they’d better hope it pays off.
The question then becomes: is it worth spending that much on a single guard?
There’s a strong argument to be made that the Saints can-and maybe should-look to the draft instead. While interior linemen rarely go in the first round, there’s value to be found on Day 2 and beyond.
Take someone like Emmanuel Pregnon, for example. The 2025 All-American has the kind of upside that could make him a steal if he’s still on the board late in Round 2 or early in Round 3.
He wouldn’t carry the same price tag as a top-tier free agent, and he’d give the Saints a young, moldable piece to build around.
This is a pivotal offseason for New Orleans. The offensive line doesn’t need a complete overhaul, but it does need a serious upgrade inside. Whether that comes through free agency with a big swing like Edwards, or through the draft with a calculated pick like Pregnon, the Saints can’t afford to roll into 2026 with the same issues up front.
Bottom line: the need is clear, and the options are there. Now it’s on the Saints’ front office to pick the right path forward.