How the New Orleans Saints Could Replace Erik McCoy Following His Reported Injury
September 28, 2024 — The New Orleans Saints may face a significant challenge after reports emerged that starting center Erik McCoy has sustained an injury. McCoy, a key piece in the Saints’ offensive line, has been a steady presence since he was drafted in 2019. His ability to anchor the line and command protection schemes has been critical to the Saints’ offensive success. Now, with uncertainty surrounding his return, the team must explore potential options to fill the void left by his absence.
Internal Replacements
The Saints are fortunate to have some depth on the offensive line, and they could look within their current roster to fill McCoy’s spot temporarily.
1. Cesar Ruiz: A versatile guard with center experience, Ruiz could be the most logical choice to step in for McCoy. Drafted in the first round in 2020, Ruiz has seen action both at center and guard. His familiarity with the offensive system and ability to communicate with the quarterback make him a strong candidate. Moving Ruiz to center, however, would create a gap at guard that the Saints would need to address.
2. Nick Saldiveri: The rookie offensive lineman, drafted in 2024, has shown promise throughout training camp and the preseason. Although primarily a guard, Saldiveri has the size and skill set to play center if called upon. While his inexperience might be a concern, he could step into the role and develop quickly under pressure.
3. Max Garcia: A veteran offensive lineman, Garcia has plenty of NFL experience and the versatility to play across multiple positions, including center. While not a long-term solution, Garcia could provide a stable option for the Saints if McCoy’s injury sidelines him for an extended period.
Free Agent Market Options
If the Saints decide to look outside their roster, there are a few available free agents who could serve as stopgap solutions at center.
1. Ben Jones: The former Tennessee Titans center, Ben Jones, remains a free agent and could be a perfect fit for the Saints. Jones is a seasoned veteran with years of experience, and his leadership could help stabilize the offensive line in McCoy’s absence. Although Jones is 34, he still has enough left in the tank to contribute for a short period.
2. Matt Skura: Another option in free agency is Matt Skura, a former Baltimore Ravens and New York Giants center. Skura has experience starting in the NFL and could step into the Saints’ system relatively quickly. While not as dominant as McCoy, Skura could hold the fort while the team assesses McCoy’s recovery timeline.
3. J.C. Tretter: Although retired, there have been rumors that former Cleveland Browns center J.C. Tretter might consider a return to the league. Tretter is a proven, reliable center who could be enticed to join the Saints for a short stint. If New Orleans can convince him to come out of retirement, Tretter would bring both experience and talent to the position.
Adjusting the Offensive Game Plan
Losing McCoy would likely force head coach Dennis Allen and offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael to adjust the team’s offensive strategy. Without McCoy’s blocking and leadership at the center of the line, the Saints may rely more on quick passes and outside runs to avoid pressure up the middle. Quarterback Derek Carr will need to build quick chemistry with whoever steps in as the new center to maintain fluidity in the offense.
Additionally, the Saints may lean more on running back Alvin Kamara and backup Jamaal Williams to help alleviate some of the pressure on the offensive line, using misdirection and screen plays to counter the pass rush.
Long-Term Outlook
While McCoy’s injury is a significant setback, the Saints have several viable options to cover his position. The team will likely use a combination of internal solutions and external possibilities, depending on the severity of McCoy’s injury. In the short term, the Saints’ offensive line depth will be tested, but with solid planning, they can navigate this challenge and remain competitive in the NFC South.
McCoy’s health will be closely monitored in the coming days, and Saints fans will hope for a speedy recovery. Until then, New Orleans will need to act quickly and wisely to ensure their offensive line remains stable.
