Professional guard Cesar Ruiz of the New Orleans Saints is at the center of swirling trade speculation as the 2025 NFL trade deadline approaches. Entering Week 9 with New Orleans sitting at 1–7, the franchise faces mounting pressure to pivot toward a rebuild — and Ruiz appears to be among the pieces that could be moved. Recent reports suggest the team may be willing to shop their former first‐round pick if the right offer emerges.
Ruiz was selected 24th overall in the 2020 NFL Draft after a standout career at the Michigan Wolverines. Over five seasons he has started 69 of 75 games, primarily at guard, and signed a four-year, $44 million extension in 2023. Despite the strong investment and early projections, the current season has been rocky for the 25-year-old interior lineman.
Observers noted a particularly poor showing in a recent loss to the Los Angeles Rams, where Ruiz was flagged as a “loser” in performance evaluations for allowing a sack and appearing “lost” without fellow lineman Erik McCoy available. Separately, he is reportedly dealing with a high-ankle sprain that is expected to keep him sidelined for up to six weeks.
The combination of injury and under-performance has reportedly accelerated the Saints’ evaluation of Ruiz as a trade candidate. According to trade rumor outlets, New Orleans could seek a second-round pick in exchange and has already received calls from other teams eyeing interior line help.
For teams in contention, acquiring a guard with Ruiz’s pedigree and experience presents a tempting opportunity — especially for clubs with offensive-line needs. The San Francisco 49ers were cited as a possible landing spot. But the question remains whether the Saints are willing to move him at a discount, given his large contract and the fact that they used a first-round pick on him.
Saints General Manager Mickey Loomis and Head Coach Kellen Moore face a challenging balancing act. On one hand, trading Ruiz now could free cap space and accelerate a rebuild; on the other hand, the team paid for his extension only two seasons ago and still needs stability up front. Financially, the contract restructure earlier this year created about $13.5 million in cap space, but Ruiz’s cap hit remains significant.
What happens next will likely unfold in the near term. The trade deadline is imminent and the Saints will be motivated to shake up a roster that has under-performed expectations. If Ruiz is traded, it may signal a full commitment to rebuilding for 2026. If he remains, he could still have a chance to reclaim his form and anchor the interior line for New Orleans. Either way, his status is one to watch for teams and fans alike as the NFL’s autumn action intensifies.
In conclusion, Cesar Ruiz’s future with the Saints remains uncertain. Once a first-round investment seen as a cornerstone of the offensive line, he is now on the fringe of trade speculation. How New Orleans handles his contract and role could be telling of their direction — whether they buy in on another push or pivot toward a long-term rebuild.
FAQs:
- Who is Cesar Ruiz?
Cesar Ruiz is an offensive guard for the New Orleans Saints, drafted 24th overall in 2020 after playing at the University of Michigan. - What is his current contract?
In 2023 he signed a four-year, $44 million extension, with roughly $30 million guaranteed. - Why is he being discussed in trade rumors?
The Saints are reportedly considering trades to accelerate a rebuild, and Ruiz has been listed among potential trade candidates amid inconsistent play and injury concerns. - What injury is he dealing with?
Ruiz suffered a high-ankle sprain and is expected to miss approximately 4-6 weeks, possibly on injured reserve. - Which teams are interested in him?
Among the teams reportedly interested are the San Francisco 49ers, who have an interior-line need. - How has he performed this season?
His performance has drawn criticism, including being singled out for poor blocking against the Rams and allowing multiple pressures. - What would the Saints likely seek in return?
According to reports, New Orleans could aim for a second-round pick in exchange, though getting a first-round equivalent is seen as unlikely. - How long did he play at Michigan and what was his role?
Ruiz played for Michigan from 2017-2019 as a center and guard, earning second-team All-Big Ten honors in 2019. - What is the trade deadline and how does it affect this?
The NFL trade deadline for 2025 is Tuesday, November 4, at 4 p.m. ET. Teams must complete deals by that time. - If the Saints keep him, what’s next for Ruiz?
If he stays, Ruiz will need to rebound from injury and poor play to justify his contract and retain a starting role in New Orleans’ offensive line plans.
