This offseason’s conversation has frequently circled back to the Saints’ most pressing need: bolstering the offensive line and emphasizing the tackle positions. Last year, Andrus Peat and James Hurst were tasked with covering left tackle duties, while Trevor Penning, despite high hopes, struggled significantly and was eventually sidelined. The situation at right tackle has also been under scrutiny, primarily due to Ryan Ramczyk’s knee issues, which have become a significant concern.
The Saints must prioritize addressing the tackle positions through the draft or free agency. I’ve often shared my ideal outcome: the Saints securing Olu Fashanu from Penn State at the 14th pick, which would significantly shore up our line. However, the strategy for enhancing our offensive tackle spot shouldn’t be limited to the draft.
Considering the dynamics of free agency, it might be wise to approach it in two phases. Initially, the Saints might observe how the draft unfolds, leaving room to engage in free agency’s second wave. This period often presents opportunities to pick up valuable players who, for various reasons, are still on the market, waiting for the right fit or for teams to reassess their needs post-draft. This approach could enable the Saints to find quality talent at a bargain, reinforcing the offensive line based on the draft’s outcomes and remaining market options.
Andrus Peat
Among the potential free-agent targets for the Saints, Andrus Peat stands out as a noteworthy consideration. At 30, Peat, a product of the Saints’ drafting efforts, proved invaluable last season. His importance was amplified due to injuries within the team; with James Hurst sidelined and Trevor Penning unable to take the field, Peat stepped up to play left tackle. While Peat has primarily served as a guard during his tenure in New Orleans, his versatility has been his most significant contribution. On multiple occasions, such as when Terron Armstead was injured, Peat seamlessly transitioned to playing left tackle, effectively acting as the starting left guard and as a dependable backup left tackle.
The value Peat brings to the table cannot be understated. Although it’s clear, he may never rank among the elite offensive linemen in the NFL—a reality reflected in his free agent status—dismissing the potential for the Saints to re-sign him, whether as a starter or in a backup capacity, would be unwise given his adaptability and skill set.
Mekhi Becton
Exploring the market for available tackles reveals diverse experience and talent. Mekhi Becton, for instance, emerges as an intriguing prospect. Selected 11th overall by the Jets, Becton’s professional journey shares similarities with Chase Young’s trajectory. Despite a promising rookie season during which he played in 13 games and participated in 81% of the Jets’ offensive snaps, Becton’s career has been hampered by injuries, limiting his impact over the subsequent seasons. As the Saints navigate their options, players like Becton offer the potential for significant upside, provided they can overcome their previous injury setbacks.
Amid this offseason, the New Orleans Saints pursuit to fortify their offensive line, particularly the tackle position, remains paramount. Last year’s struggle, highlighted by the inconsistent performance from Andrus Peat, James Hurst, and the underwhelming debut of Trevor Penning, has emphasized the need for reinforcement. Moreover, Ryan Ramczyk’s persistent knee concerns have only amplified the urgency to secure reliable talent at tackle through the draft or free agency.
Amid these challenges, the Saints have actively sought solutions. The dream scenario involves securing Olu Fashanu from Penn State at pick 14 in the upcoming draft. Fashanu’s potential availability presents an ideal match for the Saints’ immediate and long-term needs at tackle. However, the team’s strategy isn’t confined to the draft alone. The second wave of free agency post-draft presents another opportunity to bolster the roster with seasoned professionals yet to sign, possibly due to their search for the right fit or teams’ anticipation of draft outcomes.
One of the free agent prospects is Andrus Peat, a familiar face in New Orleans. Despite being primarily a guard, Peat’s adaptability had proven invaluable, mainly when injuries demanded his shift to left tackle. While not elite, Peat’s versatility and experience within the Saints’ system make him a candidate for re-signing, offering depth and flexibility along the offensive line.
The market also includes Mekhi Becton, a talent whose early promise has been marred by injuries. At 24, Becton’s physical prowess and draft pedigree as the 11th overall pick suggest a high ceiling if he can return to form. His ability to play on both ends of the line could provide a critical stopgap for Ramczyk or introduce fresh competition.
Donovan Smith
However, not all prospects carry the same appeal. Despite his experience with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Kansas City Chiefs, Donovan Smith has struggled with performance consistency, often cited as a weak link. His history raises questions about the wisdom of investing in him as a solution for the Saints.
David Bakhtiari
Conversely, David Bakhtiari presents a high-risk, high-reward option. Once a linchpin for the Green Bay Packers and protector of Aaron Rodgers’ blindside, Bakhtiari’s recent years have been plagued by injuries. Yet, when healthy, his track record of excellence makes him an intriguing consideration for a prove-it deal, aiming to recapture his All-Pro form.
As for Becton, financial expectations set by Spotrac at an average annual value of $12.9 million mirror the investment risks associated with a player of his profile. A one-year prove-it deal might offer mutual benefits, provided Becton’s market allows such an arrangement.
While free agency offers potential solutions, the draft remains a critical component of the Saints’ strategy to rebuild the offensive tackle position. It’s balancing leveraging the draft’s talent pool and navigating the free agent market’s opportunities and pitfalls. As the Saints continue their offseason maneuvers, solidifying the offensive line looms large, with careful consideration given to each potential acquisition’s impact on the team’s future.
