New Orleans has tried Banks at different positions during rookie minicamp.
The New Orleans Saints are testing ninth-overall pick Kelvin Banks Jr. in different positions on the offensive line during rookie minicamp.
Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images
The Saints’ offensive line lineup has been a major question since New Orleans took Banks in the first round. While Banks played left tackle during his three seasons with Texas, that position is currently being anchored by Taliese Fuaga. Fuaga had a standout year as a rookie and the Saints don’t want to go away from what is working.
New Orleans declined to pick up Trevor Penning’s fifth-year option. While the team has said this doesn’t mean they don’t want him to be a part of the team going forward, he is the prime candidate to be replaced on the offensive line.
Penning didn’t see much play during his rookie year and struggled immensely as a starter in his second season. After being benched in his second year, Penning earned another opportunity to be a starter in his third season. After a few early-year struggles, Penning improved significantly and finished the season as a starter.
Despite improvements from the team’s fourth-year tackle, there may be a position switch for him soon. New Orleans is testing Kelvin Banks Jr on every position on the offensive line except for center and he will get the opportunity to take right tackle from Penning.
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However, some draft experts predict Banks could be better on the inside at the NFL level and they could keep their offensive line rotation from the 2024 season with Banks sliding in at left guard.
The Saints have four first-round picks and a second-round pick on their offensive line. While three of their first-round picks were drafted as tackles, New Orleans will certainly look to start as much talent as they can and will try different to find the best lineup possible.
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