After losing left tackle Laremy Tunsil before the season, the Washington Commanders' offensive line wasn’t expected to be good this year, and through the first six games, they have lived up to that expectation. According to PFF, they are the 20th-ranked offensive line in the NFL.
With that in mind, it is not surprising that ESPN projected Washington could trade for an offensive lineman. They specifically listed New Orleans Saints guard Cesar Ruiz. New Orleans is looking to rebuild given its current 2-5 record and its likely exit from the division race. However, despite their 1-4-1 record, the Commanders still have a shot at the division and need their offensive line to improve if they want to keep quarterback Jayden Daniels upright. Here is what
ESPN had to say about Ruiz’s strengths and weaknesses:
“Ruiz is a capable player in pass protection, using his foot quickness and technique to slow interior rushers. He has posted a pass block win rate of 90% or better in five of seven pro seasons. However, Ruiz isn't a natural displacer at the point of attack in the run game, which impacts his ability to create consistent movement. His career run block win rate sits at 66.8%.”
Washington actually has a standout right guard in Sam Cosmi, who has played the best on the Commanders’ offensive line according to PFF. However, Ruiz also has the versatility to play center and right tackle. Could Washington see Ruiz as its answer at center? The Commanders mishandled the position beginning in February by releasing starter Tyler Biadasz.
Given Ruiz’s current contract situation with a cap hit of over $16 million next season, it would be a good time for New Orleans to trade him, and the Commanders need help on the offensive line. This would be a mutually beneficial trade for both teams if Washington did it. The question, though, would come down to cost. The Commanders don’t seem too interested in parting with precious draft capital.
This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Commanders named potential fit for former Saints' first-round pick
