The Arizona Cardinals may have held their starters out of the preseason opener, but the New Orleans Saints wanted to get their first team some live game action. Taliese Fuaga walked out with the starting offensive line at his new position, left tackle, and looked like a starting offensive lineman.
It was his first professional game, but the rookie looked comfortable and expressed he felt comfortable after the game. He credited Carl Granderson and Chase Young after the game.
Being able to practice against players of their caliber made this preseason game feel easier. That’s what happens when you practice against quality teammates. They’re supposed to prepare you so these moments don’t feel overwhelming
Veteran blockers Erik McCoy and Cesar Ruiz left with the rest of the starters after the first two drives. Fuaga was one of three offensive linemen who stayed in the game. It makes sense because Ruiz and McCoy are the only solidified starters on the unit. Fuaga is on his way to joining them, if he isn’t already. Still, as a rookie, those extra reps are invaluable.
Fuaga said he was able to “get a better feel of how defenses are playing, how different guys are playing the game” by staying in longer on Saturday. More time on the field gave Fuaga to see a multitude of pass rush moves and styles from professional players. Absorbing this information can aid in planning for them when the games count.
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