The New Orleans Saints are fortifying their offensive line with the addition of two promising guards to their roster. On Tuesday, the team announced that they have claimed guard Chuck Filiaga off waivers from the Green Bay Packers and signed guard Tommy Kraemer.
Filiaga, a 6-foot-6, 321-pound talent, was signed by the Packers as an undrafted free agent earlier this year but was subsequently cut by the team. Prior to his short stint with Green Bay, Filiaga showcased his skills at Michigan before transferring to Minnesota, where he started 13 games at right guard during his final college season. During his collegiate career, he received All-Big Ten Third Team honors in 2022, as awarded by coaches as well as an All-Big Ten Honorable Mention in 2022, awarded by the media.
Meanwhile, Tommy Kraemer, standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 309 pounds, boasts versatility and an impressive track record in pass protection. He played at both guard spots for Detroit, primarily serving as a right guard during his college years.
Kraemer’s ability to adapt to various positions on the offensive line could give him a competitive edge during Saints camp as he vies for a coveted roster spot. Notably, Kraemer did not allow a sack, while conceding just one QB hit and three hurries, on 2,020 pass-block snaps on the year. The 2020 season was Kraemer’s most decorated, winning awards such as Associated Press All-America Third Team, All-ACC First Team, and Reese’s Senior Bowl Top 250.
The Saints’ decision to bolster their offensive line comes amid injury concerns, particularly regarding guard Andrus Peat, who is dealing with a quadriceps muscle strain. As the team navigates through this challenging situation, Kraemer will face stiff competition from fellow talents such as Lewis Kidd, Mark Evans II, and Calvin Throckmorton, as they all strive to secure a spot on the Saints’ roster.
To make room for the new additions, the Saints waived tackle Scott Lashley with an injury designation and placed linebacker Andrew Dowell on injured reserve, reflecting the team’s commitment to building a formidable offensive line for the upcoming season.
