Saints veteran catches break following injury scare as he tries to get career on track

Selected No. 19 overall in the 2022 NFL Draft, Penning missed most of his rookie season, only playing 141 total snaps after returning from a torn ligament in his foot he suffered during the preseason in a game also against the Chargers.

After beginning 2023 at starting left tackle, Penning was pulled from the starting lineup in Week 6 and only played 13 offensive snaps from Weeks 7-18. He started every game at right tackle a season ago but allowed 54 total pressures, most among tackles, per Pro Football Focus data.

That prompted New Orleans to select tackle Kelvin Banks at No. 9 overall in the 2025 NFL Draft and move Penning to left guard, which has seemed to have done wonders for Penning's game.

Earlier in training camp, defensive tackle Khalen Saunders spoke highly about the transition.

"That's one of the best moves we could have made, honestly," Saunders said, noting that Penning's playing style is better suited for the inside than against speedy edge-rushers.

After declining his fifth-year rookie option in May, Penning is set to play on an expiring contract this season. He's fortunate to have avoided a significant injury and might be able to play himself into a sizable payday in 2026 by making the most of his move to guard.

His injury still comes with pitfalls. Without Penning, the Saints are less likely to get an accurate gauge of their three quarterbacks (Spencer Rattler, Tyler Shough, Jake Haener) vying for the starting role the rest of the preseason. 

Penning's health became more important when the team announced backup center Will Clapp (Lisfranc) was placed on season-ending injured reserve on Tuesday after leaving Sunday's game against the Chargers early.

When at full strength, the Saints offensive line boasts four first-round picks, also including right tackle Taliese Fuaga (2024) and right guard Cesar Ruiz (2020). Center Erik McCoy, a 2019 second-round pick, is arguably the unit's best player, making the Pro Bowl in 2023 and 2024.

With serious questions at quarterback, ensuring a strong foundation up front is paramount for New Orleans. If Penning returns as quickly as expected, the unit has the potential of being one of the team's strengths.