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The next time New Orleans Saints fullback Erik Lorig rushes the football will be the first time he performs that function after four NFL seasons.

And yet despite that glaring statistic — zero carries in 56 games with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers — Lorig possesses the versatility that Saints coach Sean Payton sought when filling the void created by the departure of fullback Jed Collins in free agency to the Detroit Lions.

Lorig caught Payton’s eye while he viewed cut-ups of Buccaneers game tape during the weeks leading up to free agency. In Payton’s estimation, Lorig played a significant role in the Buccaneers’ ability to run and pass, especially during the second half of a season that culminated with the dismissal of coach Greg Schiano and General Manager Mark Dominik.

Exit Collins and enter Lorig, who signed a four-year, $4.8 million contract that included a $1 million signing bonus. Counting his base salary of $750,000 and $50,000 workout bonus, the 27-year-old stands to pocket $1.8 million this season.

That’s a strong financial commitment paid to a player at a position that seldom gets a touch in the Saints prolific, pass-oriented offense.

Read more: New Saints FB Erik Lorig won

exile

He is a huge upgrade. I remember Lorig carrying the rock a few times in Tampa. But his immediate impact will be blocking short yardage. THAT is exciting!

saintsfan1976

Don't forget that Goodwin comes from one of the most complex run blocking lines in the nfl.

hagan714

a versatile FB has been missing for years in the offense.

QBREES9

The next time New Orleans Saints fullback Erik Lorig rushes the football will be the first time he performs that function after four NFL seasons.

In Payton I Trust.

halloween 65

Might be the goal line skull crusher we need to punch the ball in.

Danno

Remember when Karney went off on Dallas several years ago? That's kinda what we're likely to see out of Lorig. If he gets ignored, he will make them pay

exile

He has carried swing passes before. Something to watch.

FinSaint

Collins' run blocking seemingly became worse and worse with time - here's to hoping Lorig will bring upon an improvement in that area.

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Rugby Saint II

If you are going to play smash mouth football you need a dominant blocker at FB. It looks like we have upgraded the position with better talent. Another great offseason acquisition that seems to be flying under the radar.

I like the move. It weakens a divisional rival while making us stronger.
Great job Mickey.