Saints Draft Michigan Center Cesar Ruiz in Tremendous Move to Bolster Offensive Line
By Michael Luciano
Rather than plug up a weakness, the New Orleans Saints decided to improve on a strength.
Despite having stars like Erik McCoy, Andrus Peat, and Ryan Ramczyk on the offensive line, the Saints decided to add Michigan lineman Cesar Ruiz with the 24th overall pick in the 2020 NFL draft, which should help an aging, immobile quarterback in Drew Brees stay on his feet in the pocket.
With the No. 24 overall pick, the @Saints select @UMichFootball C Cesar Ruiz! (by @Bose)
— NFL (@NFL) April 24, 2020
?: 2020 #NFLDraft on NFLN/ESPN/ABC
?: https://t.co/G7fI4L8MxF pic.twitter.com/CN4BlbWEqd
Ruiz started games at both guard spots for Michigan, but he made his mark as a center. While his raw strength and ability to anchor in pass protection stands out, the Saints will certainly like his ability to get out in space and make plays as a run blocker.
A low-floor player, Ruiz should wiggle into the starting lineup in Year 1.
Drew Brees getting more help up front
— B/R Gridiron (@brgridiron) April 24, 2020
The Saints draft Michigan C Cesar Ruiz with the No. 24 pick in the #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/bbrxrDPLZR
Ruiz could start at center and bump McCoy to guard or make the move himself. This could give the Saints the best offensive line in football if all goes according to plan.