The New Orleans Saints return from their bye week with encouraging news, as Taliese Fuaga returns to the offensive line, after missing last week’s game and sitting out Wednesday's practice. His return brings a much needed boost to a unit that has battled inconsistency in recent weeks. If there's one person who particularly happy, it's Tyler Shough.
The Saints prepare to face the Atlanta Falcons in the first of two rivalry showdowns. New Orleans will look to build momentum with a second straight victory, while Atlanta looks to snap a five game losing streak and reset their season. With a challenging matchup ahead against a desperate Falcons squad, having Fuaga adds physicality to the front, setting the stage for a more balanced and effective approach.
Atlanta may be struggling but their rookie duo of Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr. have impressed. It's the type of head to head you want to have both of your bookend tackles for. Atlanta drafted both of these players in the first round to wreck games, and they're acclimating nicely in Year 1. These types of matchups are the reason the Saints drafted Fuaga and Kelvin Banks Jr. in the first round.
Taliese Fuaga’s return should help Tyler Shough find comfort
Fuaga's presence should provide a valuable boost to both pass protection and the run game, as the team gears up for Sunday’s matchup. He being much needed stability and confidence along the right side of the offensive line, where his his strength as a run blocker gives the offense the ability to stay on schedule.
Fuaga's reliability also gives Shough more time to work through his progressions and stay comfortable in the pocket. With Fuaga returning to the lineup, the Saints should be able to open up the playbook and keep pressure off their young quarterback.
Fuaga is putting together a solid sophomore campaign, earning an overall PFF grade of 65.0, including a strong 68.1 mark as a run blocker. His consistency in the run game is valuable for an offense that is working to establish balance. Last week, we saw the running game get rolling, and it was a key point in the Saints victory. Fuaga will help New Orleans find consistency in that aspect of the game.