Cesar Ruiz's selection by the New Orleans Saints in the 2020 NFL Draft came as a shock to fans and to Ruiz himself. The expectations pointed towards a linebacker, but the Saints took the offensive lineman instead, despite having solid starters in place. Ruiz's limited communication with the team leading up to the draft further added to the surprise. Ultimately, the decision made sense when the Saints released a guard shortly after the draft, paving the way for Ruiz's transition into the starting center role.