The Detroit Lions could explore a trade this offseason to upgrade their offensive line, and one potential target is New Orleans Saints veteran Cesar Ruiz.
According to Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine, the Saints may be willing to move the former first-round pick as they continue reshaping their roster and managing salary cap concerns. A deal involving Ruiz could benefit both teams as they head into the 2026 NFL season.
Saints Could Make Cesar Ruiz Available in Trade Talks
The Saints are entering a transitional phase as they attempt to build around young quarterback Tyler Shough, who has emerged as a possible franchise option. While New Orleans still has talent on its roster, it is not yet considered a Super Bowl contender.
Because of this, the Saints may focus heavily on the NFL Draft while using veteran trades to gain additional draft capital. Ruiz, who carries a $44 million contract, could become a trade candidate as the team looks to reset financially and build for the future.
Ballentine noted that Lions head coach Dan Campbell was with the Saints when Ruiz was drafted out of Michigan, creating a natural connection between the player and Detroit’s coaching staff.
Cesar Ruiz Could Strengthen Lions Offensive Line
Ruiz has primarily played guard in New Orleans but was a center in college, giving him positional flexibility. That versatility could be valuable for Detroit as it looks to stabilize an offensive line that struggled more than expected last season.
“Ruiz has played guard with the Saints, but he was a center in college,” Ballentine wrote. “He could either slide over or give them the runway to get either Tate Ratledge, Miles Frazier or a rookie prepared to move into the role.”
Ruiz would not likely command a massive return in a trade, but he could still fetch a solid draft pick package while providing the Lions with an experienced and reliable blocker.
Lions May Target Offensive Line Help
Despite having strong offensive weapons, the Lions were held back by inconsistent line play in 2025. Improving protection for the quarterback and opening running lanes will be a priority this offseason.
Adding Ruiz would give Detroit a proven veteran who can contribute immediately at guard or center. The Lions could offer one or more draft picks in exchange for the Saints lineman as part of a short-term push to return to playoff contention.
Trade Could Benefit Both Teams
For New Orleans, moving Ruiz could provide valuable draft assets and cap relief. For Detroit, it could mean securing a battle-tested offensive lineman without relying solely on rookies.
With the offseason approaching, the Lions are expected to explore all options to strengthen their roster, and a trade for Cesar Ruiz is now emerging as a realistic possibility.
