The New Orleans Saints are expected to be extremely active before the trade deadline on Nov 4. Offensive guard Cesar Ruiz was just named as another potential player on the move. The Saints don’t need to trade Ruiz, as he’s still a starter for them, but anyone’s available for the right price.
Ruiz has been a starter since being drafted in 2020. He was originally a center at the University of Michigan but transitioned to right guard and has been there since. He hasn’t been a flashy name, but has been reliable for years.
Ruiz has allowed one sack and 11 pressures so far in 2025. These numbers aren’t bad, but one of his biggest issues was his struggles when Erik McCoy was injured. Some analysts are concerned about Ruiz now that McCoy is out for the season with a torn bicep. This could lead to the Saints shipping him off at the deadline.
The Saints don’t need to trade Cesar Ruiz… but anyone’s available for the right price
The Saints aren’t in a dire situation where Ruiz needs to go. On the contrary, he’s a formidable starter who seems to have a good relationship with the team. However, the Saints are in a full rebuild. They will have to make some trades to obtain more picks. Ruiz is certainly an option for teams needing a guard if they’re willing to pay the price.
Ruiz won’t fetch a day two pick. A sixth round pick would be a safe guess for the potential return. They should pull the trigger if they can get anything higher than that.
Once again, it’s not a closing sale. They don’t need to trade Ruiz. He’s still only 26 years old and isn’t a liability. They shouldn’t put Tyler Shough in a position where he doesn’t have time in the pocket.
Cesar Ruiz is potentially gearing up to play his last game in the black and gold on Sunday. Although the Saints don’t need to trade him, he’s a viable trade candidate.