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Avery Young could provide valuable depth to the Saints offensive line in 2016

By Christian Lok

Apr 18, 2015; Auburn, AL, USA; Auburn Tigers offensive lineman Avery Young gets ready for a play during the A-Day game at Jordan-Hare Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Reed-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 18, 2015; Auburn, AL, USA; Auburn Tigers offensive lineman Avery Young gets ready for a play during the A-Day game at Jordan-Hare Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Reed-USA TODAY Sports /
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Last season, both Terron Armstead and Andrus Peat went down with injuries and the New Orleans Saints found themselves without the proper depth at the tackle position. That could change this offseason, as Avery Young will make his case for the 53-man roster in 2016.

After starting 36 games for the Auburn Tigers at both tackle and guard, the senior went undrafted and decided to sign with Saints after the 2016 draft. Most fans properly don’t know him, but he has a good shot at the roster as the Saints are in need for offensive line depth.

As a big guy, Young has the perfect body for the tackle position when it comes to both size and length. He uses his 6-foot-5 frame to keep rushers away from the quarterback and he has the speed to get to the second level in the run game. When he gets his hands on a player, no matter who it is, they will have a tough time getting anywhere soon.

The problem is when he is not able to get his hands on defenders. He lacks the quickness to follow rushers around the edge and will have a hard time following players with speed and quickness on the next level.

Measurables 

  • Height: 6-foot-5
  • Weight: 328 pounds
  • Arm length: 33 3/4 inches
  • Hands 10 1/2 inches

How he fits the New Orleans Saints

Young could offer depth on the line as he showed great versatility in college playing several position on the offensive line. He has the speed to play tackle, but lacks the quickness needed for the position. That is a problem, especially for the Saints who has to go up against players like Vic Beasley and Jacquies Smith (who most Saints fans know) several times per season.

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Therefore he could be used both outside and inside. He has the experience and speed at tackle, but could benefit from the slower pace in the middle of the line.

The Saints usually carry several offensive line players who they can move around if needed and Avery Young could be that guy for the next season. He will face tough competition though, as players like Jack Allen, Landon Turner and Joseph Cheek also have their sights on the 53-man roster.

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