By Ross Jackson
NEW ORLEANS — Teams often rotate players during OTAs to get a look at them in multiple positions. It can help identify multiple ways a player might contribute and give players additional opportunities to earn a roster spot.
The New Orleans Saints were expected to do the same along the offensive line. However, after two weeks of OTAs, it seems as if things are going well enough that the team hasn’t done as much rotating as previously anticipated.
The main focus has been on Trevor Penning. The 2022 first-rounder started in New Orleans as a left tackle, moved to right tackle last year and is now taking snaps consistently at left guard.
Is third time a charm for Trevor Penning? The former first round pick logged starts at left tackle, right tackle, and now he’s at left guard.
Also at OTAs, rookie Tyler Shough was dealing the deep ball for two TD strikes. pic.twitter.com/3BKvUE2f6w
— Garland Gillen (@garlandgillen) May 29, 2025
At first, it sounded like the Saints were going to get a look at additional players in the starting lineup at that position. The most common name included in that conversation was free agent acquisition Dillon Radunz.
However, the Saints have found consistent enough play with Penning on the interior that changing things up doesn’t seem like a decision New Orleans is looking to make right now.
“He’s done an excellent job,” head coach Kellen Moore said after practice. “The transition is never, never easy for anyone. And so, the more reps you get at that spot, the more comfortable you’re going to be.”
There’s still another week of OTAs, so things could change. But as of now, it looks like Penning is off to a great start at his newest position, and could wind up holding on to the spot all offseason.
