A versatile, homegrown lineman offers vital depth and a stable presence. Clapp's return secures a crucial, low-risk piece for the Saints' 2026 trenches.
As the New Orleans Saints look toward the 2026 season, the offensive line remains the team’s most critical puzzle. While the headlines often focus on blue-chip tackles and high-round draft picks, the real grit of a successful season is often found in the depth chart. This brings us to a familiar name and a local favorite in Will Clapp. The Case for continuity is in. The Saints should bring back Will Clapp for 2026.
After a 2025 season that was unfortunately stolen by a Lisfranc injury in the preseason, the question for the front office is whether to move on or offer the LSU product another one-year deal. The answer is clear: the Saints should re-sign Clapp for 2026.
You Can’t Teach Versatility
In the modern NFL, a backup lineman who can only play one position is a luxury most teams can't afford. Clapp has proven himself as a "Swiss Army Knife" on the interior.
- Center/Guard Flexibility: He has logged significant starts at center (notably with the Chargers in 2023) and has the frame to slide into either guard spot.
- The "Jumbo" Specialist: Throughout his first stint in New Orleans, Clapp was the go-to sixth lineman in "heavy" packages, a role that requires a specific blend of timing and power.
A Low-Risk, High-Value Insurance Policy
The Saints’ interior line has been plagued by the "injury bug" over the last few years. Starting center Erik McCoy and guard Cesar Ruiz have both dealt with nagging issues. With that, I think the Saints need at least two new guards to have in rotation for a what if situation.
- Reliability: Before his 2025 foot injury, Clapp was a dependable veteran with over 70 games of experience.
- The Price Tag: At 30 years old and coming off an injury, Clapp isn't going to command a massive salary. He provides veteran leadership and starting-caliber experience for a fraction of the cost of a high-end free agent.
The "Homegrown" Intangible
There is something to be said for a player who understands the "Saints Way." As a New Orleans native and former LSU Tiger, Clapp is more than just a depth piece, he is a culture fit. The Saints need the best and most durable line with the best depth they can possibly get. He knows the building, he knows the city, and he provides a stable presence in a locker room that has seen its fair share of turnover.
My Two Pennies
No, Will Clapp isn't a Pro Bowl starter who will sell thousands of jerseys. But games in December and January are won by the guys who can step in when a starter goes down and keep the offense on schedule. With Tyler Shough in the pocket, having a solid offensive line will be critical for the 2026 NFL season.
Considering he's healthy and can hold up for another year for a depth piece, then bring him back for another year. If the Saints can secure him on a veteran-minimum or incentive-laden deal, it’s a no-brainer. Clapp offers the experience and flexibility that a rebuilding, or contending Saints team desperately needs in the trenches.
Verdict: Re-sign him.