Saints Trade Former First-Round Pick to Playoff Contender: SI Proposal
Recent discussions have emerged around a potential trade involving the New Orleans Saints and their former first-round pick, Trevor Penning. Sports Illustrated’s Conor Orr has proposed that the Saints should consider parting ways with Penning to a playoff contender, specifically the Detroit Lions.
Trevor Penning’s Situation with the Saints
Penning was selected by the Saints in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft. However, his future with the team looks uncertain. The Saints opted not to pick up his fifth-year option, signaling a shift in their strategy.
- Position Flexibility: Penning has the capability to play both guard and tackle.
- Injury History: He has faced numerous injuries, impacting his performance on the field.
His early promise as a rookie has been overshadowed by the struggles of the Saints’ offensive line. With a record of 5-2, the Lions could benefit from his talent to strengthen their team, especially with Taylor Decker dealing with injuries.
Potential Benefits for the Saints
By trading Penning, the Saints could gain valuable draft equity. A fourth-round pick could be on the table, which would be advantageous as they look to reshape their roster under Coach Kellen Moore. This approach comes after the Saints traded away their fourth-round pick to the Denver Broncos in exchange for wide receiver Devaughn Vele.
Moreover, acquiring a mid-round pick for Penning could be essential. If he leaves in free agency, the Saints would not receive a compensatory pick, which is a significant risk given the current status of his performance.
Performance Overview
Penning’s tenure with the Saints has seen mixed results:
- Left Tackle Struggles: He has been regarded as a disappointment at left tackle.
- Recent Position Changes: He is now playing left guard, where his performance has remained inconsistent.
- Penalty Issues: In just six starts since his return from injury, he has accumulated five penalties.
Given these challenges, it seems unlikely that the Saints will re-sign him after this season. The team’s veteran backup, Dillon Radunz, is ready to step in, making a trade more feasible.
Other Trade Rumors
Orr’s article mentioned other potential trades for the Saints, including Alvin Kamara. However, Kamara has expressed reluctance to leave, making such a trade less likely.
With the NFL trade deadline approaching, the potential trade of Trevor Penning to the Lions could offer a win-win scenario for both teams, enhancing the Saints’ future while providing Detroit with needed depth on the offensive line.
