Kelvin Banks Jr. has had as much of a ripple effect as any new addition the New Orleans Saints have made this offseason, sans Kellen Moore.
As far as rookies go, Tyler Shough will probably have the biggest impact. However, his role isn't guaranteed. Shough's impact won't be seen until the Saints and he plays meaningful football. This is where Banks stands apart from his peers.
The Saints may be 71 days away from their season opener versus the Arizona Cardinals, but the effects of their first round pick is already being felt.
Kelvin Banks Jr. caused a shift on the Saints offensive line
There's been a lot of discussion about the new look offensive line for the Saints. It would be easy to forget, or not be aware, the Saints are returning four of their five Week 1 starters in the unit. Banks is the only new face among the group.
Though New Orleans is returning four starters, Cesar Ruiz and Erik McCoy are the only starters remaining in their same position. That's all because of the addition of Banks. Fuaga was excellent at left tackle in his rookie season. His performance as a rookie was even more impressive because Fuaga was playing left tackle for the first time.
Fuaga will now move over and replace Trevor Penning at right tackle. Penning is making another position change to left guard. The 2025 Saints offensive line will look very familiar and very different at the same time.
The two biggest changes may determine the OL success
There should be a high level of confidence in McCoy and Fuaga. McCoy has a track record of success, and Fuaga was successful enough under those circumstances as a rookie to inspire faith. The true deciding factors of success will be Banks and Penning.
To emphasize matters, Banks and Penning are on the same side of the offensive line. You don't want a rookie to have to cover up for his guard, and you don't want Penning tasked with covering up for a rookie in his first year at guard. Either could compromise the integrity of an entire side of the offensive line in the run game or passing attack.
Tyler Shough has mobility, but there have been questions about his ability to handle pressure. Penning's success is directly related to keeping interior pressure away. Even mobile quarterbacks hate pressure directly in their face.
Banks is responsible for protecting the blind side of Shough, or Spencer Rattler. The rookie will likely get help from tight ends and running backs, but he'll have to handle his own as well. The Saints just had one rookie come in and play well immediately. Can Banks do the same?
