The New Orleans Saints may have come away with a big win over the Baltimore Ravens in Week 2, but it’s proven to be a Pyrrhic Victory thanks to a major injury.
New Orleans (1-1) is expected to be without top left tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. for an extended period after he suffered a high ankle sprain that will require surgery. In his stead, veteran lineman Asim Richards is expected to step into the blindside tackle role, a player in which head coach Kellen Moore has expressed confidence.
“Asim was asked to play a number of snaps last year, and you know he’ll be asked to play a number of snaps this year,” Moore said. ”I think he’s gotten better throughout the offseason. (I) Thought he hopped in there and battled. He’s gone against [Ravens edge rusher Trey Hendrickson] in a couple passing situations. I thought he held his own, and so we’ll prepare with him getting as many reps as he possibly can, and so then he’ll be ready to go.”
The Saints traded with the Dallas Cowboys to acquire Richards last offseason, showing a willingness to invest in his talents as a backup that could be quickly called into action.
In the trade, the Saints sent a 2028 sixth-round selection to acquire Richards and a 2028 seventh-round pick. Since arriving in New Orleans, he’s taken 391 offensive snaps at both left and right tackle.
It’s clear the Saints saw something they liked in the fourth-year lineman, who was originally drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the fifth round of the 2023 NFL Draft. Moore highlighted those qualities when asked what the team liked about Richards enough to pursue him.
“I think he’s a steady player,” said Moore. “He doesn’t get too high, doesn’t get too low. He does a good job of putting himself in a good position from a pass protection standpoint. He’s still a young player that’s just continuing to grow and develop. Him having [left guard David Edwards] over there next to him, I think will help, and there’ll be some stability.”
Banks will have surgery in the coming days before Week 3 and the Saints are keeping the door open for his return during the 2026 season. While he recovers from the surgery, it will be Richards the team is counting on to step up in his place.
His first start of 2026 will immediately put him to the test. The Saints are set to host the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 3, drawing a matchup with star edge defender Maxx Crosby.
