Clapp’s season-ending foot injury opened the door for Fortner to assume the Saints’ center duties. His absence forced a depth re-evaluation at center, with Fortner stepping back into a starting-capable role to stabilize calls and protection as New Orleans navigates the early part of the season.

Clapp’s season-ending injury opens a depth gap behind McCoy, contributing to the Saints’ urgency to shore up interior protection and backup options at center.

Clapp joins the IR group, highlighting Saints’ depth issues on the OL that can influence passing game reps for WRs and overall offensive efficiency in 2025.

Clapp’s season-ending injury left the Saints thin at interior line depth, prompting Panasiuk’s workout and the broader test of veteran options. Clapp’s injury history underscores the need for multiple players who can step in at center and guard as preseason progression continues.

Clapp’s foot injury in the preseason game ended his year, removing a veteran interior blocker from behind Erik McCoy. This heightens concerns about center/guard depth and could accelerate competition at the Saints’ interior line spots, especially if McCoy needs extra assistance in run-blocking schemes.