Tim

Lelito

Lelito’s snaps were down last season, but he was a Swiss-army knife, seeing time at tackle, guard and center. Lelito has been effective in the past. Still only 28 (in July), he could be an under-the-radar signing. Lelito is primarily a guard.

A 13-game starter at left guard in 2015, Lelito was sent back to the bench last season, making just seven spot starts. He has position versatility, as Lelito played left guard, right tackle, and center last year. In 2015, Lelito was Pro Football Focus’ No. 7-ranked run-blocking guard out of 82 qualifiers.

Lelito previously visited the Lions. He has experience at center, guard, and tackle and would be a capable starter in a pinch. Lelito started 13 games at left guard in 2015, receiving really strong marks for his run blocking from Pro Football Focus. It’s somewhat surprising the 26-year-old hasn’t drawn more looks.

It’s a nice addition to an already stacked offensive line. Lelito made just seven spot starts last year, but adds depth and is a strong presence in the run game. He should back up at multiple spots.

Lelito has been limited to spot duty at center the last two seasons. The Saints are moving him to guard after trading for Max Unger. With rookie Andrus Peat the favorite to start at right tackle, Zach Strief could also be an option on the inside.

Lelito has mostly played center the last two seasons, but he will focus on guard after the Saints traded for Max Unger. Lelito may be given the first shot to earn the left guard spot, but whoever loses the right tackle battle between Zach Strief and rookie Andrus Peat remains the favorite to end up with the job.

Lelito is the in-house favorite to replace Ben Grubbs. The Saints view Lelito as a potential upgrade next to Max Unger. Lelito’s job security will only come into question if Zach Strief moves inside.

Brian de la Puente, the Saints’ starter for the last three seasons, remains an unsigned free agent. If he ends up signing elsewhere, Lelito is the in-house replacement option. The 2013 UDFA made two starts at right guard as a rookie, handling himself well.

Columnist and former beat writer Jeff Duncan believes Goodwin “looks more like insurance than viable competition.” Lelito’s lone two rookie starts came at right guard, so the Saints would be placing a ton of faith in a neophyte snapper.

“You are never just given a position,” Payton said. “Tim has done a lot of good things and we are excited about his progress, and a guy like Jonathan who has played a long time, I think it’ll make both of them better.” Although Goodwin is 35, he played with Drew Brees from 2006-10, and remained a useful player in 2013. He has a strong shot at beating out Lelito.