The 2024 NFL Draft provided lots of excitement for the New Orleans Saints. In the first round, they selected the class’s top offensive lineman.
They are now making an intriguing decision with former Oregon State running back Taliese Fuaga.
During rookie minicamp, the Saints are allegedly giving Fuaga some reps at left tackle.
Dennis Allen discussed Fuaga’s move at his press conference on Friday.
The exchange is not unusual for the Saints. Andrus Peat spent the majority of his professional career playing inside before switching to tackle last year. In college, he worked as an occupational therapist.
Cesar Ruiz played both centre and guard in college, but the majority of his NFL reps have been at guard due to Erik McCoy’s presence on the Saints offensive line. Many anticipated him to play centre in the pros, but guard has shown to be a better fit.
As a veteran, James Hurst alternated between guard and tackle while with the Saints. Remember that when Ryan Ramczyk first entered the league, some scouts mistook him for a guard. The Saints obviously disagreed with that sentiment, and it has paid off.
“I’m not sure, some say it’s like driving on the opposite side of the highway – you get what I mean?… It’s just getting used to it. That is all I can say about it.
— Fuaga discusses the swap
Overall, the Saints have experience moving players around on the offensive line.
Clearly, Fuaga understands that if the team wants him to start at left tackle before the start of the season, he must first knock off rust. That being said, remember that it’s May.
New Orleans is wise to evaluate him at both tackle positions over time to determine where he can best contribute to the rest of the offensive line.
Trevor Penning was picked as a left tackle, but he has a lot to show. If he is unable to secure the role, Fuaga may be given the opportunity. We’ll see how the rest of camp shakes out along the Saints offensive line. There’s plenty of time and repetitions ahead.
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