The left side of the offensive line is a huge point of uncertainty for the New Orleans Saints, and that side of the offensive front becoming a liability is the worst case scenario for the unit. The pairing of Trevor Penning and Kelvin Banks Jr has a high floor and low ceiling.
It's one thing to have two question marks on your offensive line, but having them right next to each other creates the potential for a costly fallout. Penning or Banks could have their struggles in 2025. Both men struggling would compromise an entire side of the Saints offensive line.
This means primarily running the football to one side, which leads to predictability. In the passing game, Tyler Shough or Spencer Rattler wouldn't have security on their blind side. The Saints would be negatively impacted if either Banks or Penning struggled this season, but they can't afford for both to struggle
Saints putting Trevor Penning in a new position means he's starting from scratch.
Penning has to move positions yet again. He's been a Week 1 starter in each of the last two seasons for the Saints, but had to move from left tackle to right tackle to do it. Now, he's moving to guard.
There's reason to believe this is a more natural fit for Penning, but it's no guarantee he'll successfully transition to guard. We saw Kellen Moore help Mekhi Becton make the transition with the Eagles last year. The Saints can only hope Penning's transition is that seamless.
With Dillon Radunz sitting on the bench, there's always the question of how much of a leash will the Saints give Penning. There's an easy way out, but if Penning struggles on the interior, the impact will be felt the entire time he's on the field.
Kelvin Banks Jr. may have some growing pains
Banks isn't in the same position as Penning. While Penning is fighting for his future, Banks has his entire future ahead of him. You just wonder how fast Banks will get acclimated to the NFL game. The struggles he may endure could simply be a natural part of his journey from college.
Fuaga had a monster rookie season. He went toe-to-toe with Myles Garrett and came up big. Drafting another offensive tackle in the first round would hopefully provide similar success. It's important to note, however, rookies often have their growing pains.
Banks taking most of the year to get accustomed to the NFL speed wouldn't be abnormal. In 2025, however, it could prove costly for the Saints. Penning shouldn't be tasked with having to make up for any mistakes from rookie next to him. He's learning his own new position.