Fuaga Runs with the Starters in Thursday Return

METAIRIE – Investing a first-round pick in a player comes with a lot of expectations. So far, New Orleans Saints first-round tackle Taliese Fuaga has lived up to that outlook. Even doing so at a new position, having moved from right tackle at Oregon State to left tackle with the Saints. Despite that transition, Fuaga has consistently looked the part.

That is why it was such a concern when the 6-foot-5, 324lbs tackle ended up missing time throughout the last week of practices in Irvine, Calif. as well as the subsequent preseason game against the San Francisco 49ers.

While Fuaga dealt with out back tightness, the left tackle spot was handled effectively by versatile offensive lineman Landon Young. Fuaga made his highly-anticipated return Thursday. He stepped right back into the left tackle role and looked just as productive as ever.

Fuaga’s hand fighting, knowledge of placement and leverage as well as anchor ability and aggression are all standout qualities and traits of his game. They’re why the Saints made the decision to invest a first round pick in the Oregon State transfer and why it looks like Fuaga could be a long-time starting offensive lineman. That is exactly what the Saints need.

While questions circulate around the opposite side of the line, there should be no question that Fuaga seems ready for the task ahead in becoming the team’s new starting left tackle. Only two other spots on the line are really cemented ahead of the team’s final preseason game. center Erik McCoy and right guard Cesar Ruiz are set in stone as the starters at their spots. It looks like a sure thing that Fuaga will be as well.