Can the Saints build around their quarterback? Honest analysis dissects roster needs, from offensive line concerns to promising rookies, revealing a path to competitiveness.
This episode of State of the Saints is all about the offseason for New Orleans.
The discussion begins with a high-level view of the Saints’ offseason outlook. TJ is clear that he believes New Orleans can be competitive again if it makes the right decisions, and much of that optimism centers on Tyler Shuck. TJ praises Shuck not just for his on-field play, but for how he’s embraced the city and fanbase, framing that authenticity as a meaningful contrast to recent eras. The message is that belief in the quarterback is real — but it only matters if the organization follows through by building properly around him.
That leads into a blunt evaluation of the roster, especially the offensive line. TJ is openly frustrated with Cesar Ruiz, criticizing the lack of consistency and the absence of real competition at the position. He argues that allowing “average at best” play to go unchallenged is a structural failure, and calls for either a replacement or legitimate pressure through the draft or free agency. The solution, in TJ’s view, is aggressive investment — adding a high-end guard and raising the overall floor of the line.
He balances that critique by pointing to hope, highlighting rookie Calvin Banks as a potential long-term answer at left tackle, even drawing lofty comparisons to Joe Thomas. TJ also revisits past organizational tendencies, including a critique of Sean Payton prioritizing potential over proven production.
Overall, the episode blends personal reflection with pointed football analysis, reinforcing TJ’s core philosophy: honesty over hype, and long-term credibility over short-term noise.