After adding first-round pick Taliese Fuaga, some may think that the New Orleans Saints are set on the offensive line. That is not the case. They do not have a clear starter at left guard. Cesar Ruiz is expected to be the starting RG, but Oli Udoh is the leading option for the other guard spot.
Udoh is a veteran with experience in Klint Kubiak's system, but they should create more competition in the IOL room.
Risner is a guard with legitimate starting experience. He's still just 28 years old and spent time with Klubiak with the Denver Broncos. Risner started eleven games for the Minnesota Vikings in 2023.
In 2022, Risner totaled a 61.1 grade via Pro Football Focus. 2021 was arguably his best season, when Risner allowed just four sacks in 832 snaps. He also took just two penalties.
Risner seems like an ideal addition during this stage of free agency.
By the middle of May, you normally cannot find strong starting pieces to an offensive or defensive line. He's an exception here, and the Saints need another veteran on their OL most than many teams around the NFL.
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