Jeremiah Wright Takes the Saints’ No. 65

Why No. 65 Is a Saints Tradition

New Orleans will open the 2026 campaign against the Detroit Lions on Sunday, Sept. 13, and the spotlight falls on rookie Jeremiah Wright, who claims the No. 65 jersey. Wright, a fourth‑round offensive lineman, is set to become the 20th Saint to wear the number, hoping to replace Cesar Ruiz at right guard. The digit carries a rich history that spans over five decades of line play for the franchise.

From Tom Carr’s brief four‑game stint in 1968 to the most recent arrivals, No. 65 has been a badge of responsibility and, at times, a stepping‑stone for emerging talent. The number has produced two defensive players—Carr and Oakley Dalton—while the majority of its bearers have anchored the offensive line. Each wearer added a unique chapter to the Saints’ heirloom.

Stars Who Shaped the No. 65 Legacy

Remi Prudhomme (1971‑72) logged 19 games as a guard, ushering in the offensive‑line era for the digit. Dave Thompson (1974‑75) followed with a two‑year run of 21 contests on the edge. Steve Trapilo (1987‑92) became the first Saints draft pick to claim No. 65 and amassed 57 games—the second‑most tenures to date.

Willie Williams (1994) started five games in a lone season, while Chris Naeole (1997‑2001) posted the most appearances ever with 67 games and entered the draft as the tenth overall pick—the highest‑selected player to wear 65. LaCharles Bentley (2002‑05) earned Pro Bowl honors at guard and center, adding another 57‑game stretch and a second‑round pedigree.

Following Bentley, several players contributed short stints: Matt Tennant, Ricky Henry, and Senio Kelemete, whose six‑year, 57‑game run tied the second‑longest tenure. Robert Woods (1999‑2006) wore 65 for 45 games and anchored two seasons at right tackle. Other notable bearers include Jeff Hart (zero appearances), Bob Young (two games), David Carter (11 games), Adam Schreiber (one game), and the recent trio of Michael Ola, Caleb Benenoch, and Wyatt Davis, who combined for nine games across three seasons.

The most memorable recent episode occurred when Benenoch earned an emergency start during the 2021 Monday night loss to the Miami Dolphins, a game played amid a COVID‑ridden roster while commissioner Roger Goodell refused to postpone the contest.

Recent Ups and Downs on the 65 Jerseys

After Kelemete’s departure, the Saints have cycled through several linemen, each adding brief chapters to the No. 65 story. The scarcity of consistent contributors underscores how prized the position is within the organization. The mix of promising beginnings and abrupt endings illustrates the volatile nature of roster spots in the NFL.

Despite the challenges, the number remains a symbol of resilience, with each player—from the early defensive outliers to modern offensive linemen—leaving a tangible imprint on team history. The legacy of No. 65 continues to evolve with every new jersey change.

Wright’s Path to the Guard Spot

Jeremiah Wright arrives as a powerful blocker with notable upside, entering the league with the hopes of stabilizing the Saints’ right‑guard position. He is expected to challenge incumbent Cesar Ruiz for a starting role, though early expectations are tempered by his limited experience. General manager Mickey Loomis praised Wright’s work ethic and physical tools during the draft process.

Standing at 6‑5 and 310 pounds, Wright offers the necessary size to hold up in the modern pass‑protect schemes the Saints employ. His college background at Auburn highlighted a disciplined approach to footwork and technique, traits that could translate quickly to NFL success. Even if he begins as a rotational piece, Wright’s development will be closely watched by New Orleans fans eager to see the next great No. 65.

Kickoff Kicks Near as September Approaches

With 65 days remaining until the season opener, anticipation builds for both the on‑field battle and the symbolic transfer of the number. The Saints’ September 13 matchup against Detroit will serve as Wright’s potential debut stage, where he might earn early snaps and prove his readiness. The entire organization looks toward a season that could rewrite the story of No. 65 once again.

The past wearers of 65 have ranged from breakout stars to gritty backups, each contributing to a narrative of perseverance and opportunity. As the roster continues to shape, Wright’s arrival marks the newest entry in a storied line of Saints who have embraced this iconic number.

This article originally appeared on Saints Wire: 65 days until Saints opener: Every player to wear the No. 65 jersey