Hurst began his career as a UDFA with the Ravens in 2014 and started a few games, primarily at left tackle, over the next few seasons. He worked his way up to a full-time starting role at left guard in 2017. Hurst eventually joined the Saints as a free agent and has played a mix of guard and tackle for them over the past four years. His retirement adds more credibility to the idea that the Saints are all but guaranteed to take an offensive lineman in the first round of the draft.

While the practice was limited, it’s a step in the right direction for Hurst, who had been starting at left guard with Andrus Peat hurt. With Peat returning in Week 6, Hurst switched over to left tackle and then suffered an ankle injury. Getting Hurst back on the field will mean the Saints are finally healthy on the offensive line, which would be a major boost for Derek Carr.

Hurst had been starting at left guard with Andrus Peat hurt; however, with Peat returning in Week 6, Hurst switched over to left tackle and then suffered an ankle injury. The injury kept Hurst out for Week 7 and is now forcing him to start off on the wrong foot for Week 8. With the Saints offensive line banged up, they continue to perform poorly, allowing pressure on Derek Carr and opening few holes for Alvin Kamara. New Orleans obviously hopes to get Hurst back soon.

Hurst had been starting at left guard with Andrus Peat hurt; however, with Peat returning this week, Hurst had moved over to start at left tackle. Now it appears that the Saints will have to play without Hurst. That means Trevor Penning, who Pro Football Focus ranks 51st out of 71 tackles in 2023, will move back into the starting lineup at left tackle. That’s not great news for the entire Saints offense.