Here Is One Position Where The New Orleans Saints Could Spend Bigger Money In Free Agency
Much has been made this offseason about a major need that the New Orleans Saints have at offensive tackle. While certainly true, the Saints have an equally pressing need at guard. New Orleans allowed 35 sacks in 2023 and ranked just 21st in rushing production, with their 3.6 per carry being the second worst in the NFL.
Cesar Ruiz is pretty much a lock at right guard, but Ruiz had a slight regression after finally putting up a good year in 2022. Left guard is a potential abyss. James Hurst, the starter last year, was shaky at best and a liability at worst. Andrus Peat, who took over at left tackle for a benched Trevor Penning, is a free agent.
Joining Peat in free agency are Max Garcia, who struggled mightily, and Trai Turner, who was signed to compete for a starting job but was lost for the year with an injury. Rookie fourth-round pick Nick Saldiveri couldn't see the field, despite the injuries and subpar play up front.
Because of these factors, it wouldn't be at all surprising if the Saints invested heavily into bringing in another guard. This becomes an even bigger need if Peat, Turner, or turnstile Garcia are not re-signed.
An offensive tackle rarely hits the open market while in their prime. Such is not the case with interior linemen, which is where the Saints may take advantage early on in free agency. Here are a few free agent guards that New Orleans could target this week.
(age and previous team in parentheses)
• Robert Hunt (27 - Dolphins)
• Jonah Jackson (27 - Lions)
• Connor Williams (26 - Dolphins)
• Laken Tomlinson (32 - Jets)
• Dalton Risner (28 - Vikings)
• Damien Lewis (27 - Seahawks)
• Mike Onwenu (26 - Patriots)
• Cody Whitehair (31 - Bears)
• Kevin Zeitler (34 - Ravens)
Detroit Lions guard Jonah Jackson (73) at the line of scrimmage against the Kansas City Chiefs. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
Robert Hunt (RG) and Miami teammate Connor Williams (LG/C) are expected to be highly coveted by several teams. Hunt, a collegiate star at Louisiana, has been an exceptional pass blocker and equally effective in the running game throughout his career. Williams, who can also play center, has been just as good but has missed some time with injuries over his career.
Jonah Jackson will be at least as coveted as one of the key members of an elite Detroit offensive line. He's a plow for the running game and provides a formidable wall in pass protection.
Tomlinson and Zeitler are on the back end of their careers and therefore may not command a large, long-term deal. However, each are still capable of exemplary performances for both the passing attack and running game.
Seattle Seahawks guard Damien Lewis (68) blocks San Francisco 49ers defensive tackle Kalia Davis (93). Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY
Whitehair's release from Chicago was surprising, but had little to do with performance. He's a bit undersized, but makes up for that with good strength and excellent technique. Risner remains a top run blocker, but can have issues in pass protection. He also has some experience with new Saints offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, having played in his system with Denver.
With other big names available at the position, Damien Lewis or Mike Onwenu could fly under the radar. As a result, either could be a somewhat cheaper, but long-term answer for an offensive line. Former LSU star Lewis is a mauler with agile feet, while Onwenu has shown the versatility to play well at either guard or tackle.
If the Saints spend relatively big money at any position in free agency, this is a spot where I expect them to juggle the finances to do it. Guard has been nearly as big of an issue as tackle. While their are few answers at tackle in free agency, New Orleans could check off a big need at guard and use an early draft choice (again) at tackle.
*SIGNING UPDATES*
• Jonah Jackson agreed on Monday, 3/11, to a contract with the Los Angeles Rams for three years and a reported total of $51 million.
