New Orleans Saints offensive tackle Trevor Penning has faced his fair share of challenges on the path to establishing himself as a key player on the team’s offensive line.
Penning, selected as the No. 19 overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, encountered a series of setbacks in his rookie year. Turf toe sidelined him for the first 11 regular-season games, and a subsequent Lisfranc injury followed by surgery further hampered his progress during the offseason. These injuries limited his participation in the team’s workouts and hindered his opportunity to develop as a player.
However, Penning’s determined efforts to overcome these obstacles have started to bear fruit in the current training camp. Despite initial concerns about the lingering effects of his foot injuries, Penning has reported feeling positive about his health and performance on the field. His ability to actively participate in training camp and take reps is crucial for his development and the improvement of the Saints’ offensive line.
In his limited playing time during his rookie year, Penning showcased promise in run-blocking with a favorable PFF grade (80.2). However, his pass-blocking performance, while based on a smaller sample size, yielded a lower grade (38.7). With a full training camp and increased playing opportunities, Penning aims to refine both aspects of his game and solidify his role as a key contributor to the Saints’ offensive line.
Despite the challenges, Penning’s aggressive and competitive nature remains a defining characteristic of his playing style. Known for his edge and physicality, Penning is focused on maintaining his aggressive approach while also learning and growing as a player. His willingness to embrace guidance from teammates like defensive end Cam Jordan highlights his commitment to continuous improvement and development.
Derek Carr Observations And The Future Ahead
Quarterback Derek Carr, who joined the Saints recently, has taken notice of Trevor Penning remarkable determination and intensity on the field. Carr acknowledges Penning’s aggressive and physical playing style, describing him as a “very violent individual” who strives to assert dominance in both run-blocking and pass protection.
Carr’s insights into Penning’s playing mentality are complemented by the offensive lineman’s willingness to embrace his unique approach to the game. Penning’s intensity is balanced by a genuine desire to learn and grow, a quality that has impressed both Carr and his defensive teammates.
Penning’s standout attributes align well with the demands of offensive line play, where controlled aggression and a willingness to adapt are essential. Carr’s excitement about Penning’s potential is evident, emphasizing the value of having a diverse range of personalities and playing styles on the offensive line.
As Penning embarks on his second year in the NFL, his journey to recovery and development serves as a testament to his resilience and determination. The Saints’ offensive line is poised to benefit from Penning’s continued growth and contributions, as the team aims to regain control of the competitive NFC South division. With his health on the mend and a supportive quarterback like Carr by his side, Penning’s impact on the field is anticipated to be a driving force for the Saints’ success in the upcoming season.