The 2024 NFL season is fast approaching, and for the New Orleans Saints, a mixture of anticipation and concern is palpable. Key among their worries is the condition of their star right tackle, Ryan Ramczyk. Recently, the Saints have listed Ramczyk on the reserve/physically unable to perform (PUP) list, following a knee surgery he underwent in the offseason.
Ramczyk's knee problems have been a recurring issue. Over the past three years, the durable tackle has managed to start only 38 out of a possible 50 games. The most pressing concern came into focus when his knee issue sidelined him for the last four games of the previous regular season. Despite hopes for a swift recovery, head coach Dennis Allen remains cautious, stating, "Ramczyk's knee hadn't responded the way that they had hoped."
Being on the PUP list mandates that Ramczyk will miss the first four games of the Saints' season. After this period, the team will have a five-week window in which Ramczyk can begin practicing. Once he starts, there's a 21-day window within which the Saints must decide whether to activate him onto the 53-man roster. If they fail to do so, Ramczyk will remain on the PUP list for the rest of the season, which would be a significant blow for the team.
Preparing for the Season
In response to Ramczyk's uncertain status, the Saints have been proactive. During the 2024 NFL Draft, they selected Taliese Fuaga, a highly-regarded tackle from Oregon State, in the first round. Fuaga has been primarily working as the team's left tackle during offseason training, showing promise and adaptability.
Additionally, Trevor Penning, a first-round pick from 2022, has been taking most of his reps at right tackle, the position where Ramczyk ordinarily plays. This strategic shuffling aims to ensure that the offensive line remains robust, even in Ramczyk's absence.
Other Roster Updates
Ramczyk is not the only player the Saints are concerned about. The team has also placed tight end Juwan Johnson, defensive end Tanoh Kpassagnon, linebacker Nephi Sewell, and defensive end Chase Young on the PUP list. Each of these players holds a vital role in the Saints' overall strategy, making their health and readiness crucial for the team's success.
Adding to their worries, wide receiver Chris Olave has been placed on the non-football injury list. The specifics of Olave's condition have yet to be disclosed, but his placement on this list suggests that the issue may not have occurred during football-related activities. Olave is a significant contributor to the Saints' offensive efforts, and his absence could have a substantial impact on their performance.
Looking Forward
For the Saints, the immediate future hinges on how quickly and effectively their injured players can return to full strength. The team’s resilience and depth will be tested, and their strategic planning during these challenging times will be crucial. The next few weeks will reveal if the shuffling and preparations undertaken by the coaching staff are enough to keep the team competitive as they await their key players' return.