The New Orleans Saints might be banged up at the tackle spots, but they are dedicated to a change.
According to multiple reports, Trevor Penning is expected to return to the bench despite the absences of James Hurst (ankle), Ryan Ramczyk (concussion) and Landon Young (hip). The Saints opted to sit down the former first-round pick a week ago for what Dennis Allen described as a chance to step back to gain perspective and progress in the background.
In their place the Saints will turn Andrus Peat, who was drafted as a tackle but hasn't seen significant action their since 2018, at left tackle. On the right side it will be another former first-rounder in Cam Erving elevated from the practice squad for his first start since 2021 with the Carolina Panthers. Erving has spent the past several weeks on the practice squad. That means the Saints line will feature three 2015 draft picks, with Peat (No. 13), Erving (No. 19) and Max Garcia at left guard (No. 133).
Penning is expected to be active and serve as the backup, the same role he was in for Week 6 and got into the game in the first half after Hurst went down with an injury. OL Tommey Kraemer has also been signed to the active roster for the second time this season.
Along with Erving, the Saints have elevated linebacker Jaylon Smith with starter Demario Davis questionable with a knee injury.
The Saints have also activated RB Jamaal Williams from injured reserve and waived Jordan Mims.
The Saints (3-3) host the Jaguars (4-2) at the Caesars Superdome at 7:15 p.m. on Thursday Night Football.
