BREAKING: Saints Stunned as Coach Kellen Moore Announces Ryan Ramczyk Named New Team Captain
In a move that has caught fans, analysts, and even some players off guard, New Orleans Saints head coach Kellen Moore announced today that veteran right tackle Ryan Ramczyk has been named the team’s newest captain. The news broke during a press conference early Monday morning, where Moore praised Ramczyk’s leadership, consistency, and unwavering dedication to the franchise.
While Ramczyk is widely respected across the league as one of the NFL’s premier offensive linemen, the decision to name him team captain—particularly at a time of transition for the Saints—was unexpected. Traditionally, team captains in New Orleans have been high-profile skill players or vocal leaders on defense. Ramczyk, known for his quiet, workmanlike demeanor, now steps into a more public leadership role that could reshape the team’s dynamic both on and off the field.
A Leader in the Trenches
Coach Moore, who took the reins of the Saints this offseason, emphasized that the decision was based not on flash or popularity, but on impact.
“Ryan Ramczyk has been the foundation of this offensive line for years,” Moore said. “His work ethic, professionalism, and ability to lead by example make him the ideal captain for the culture we’re building here. Leadership doesn’t always shout. Sometimes it speaks loudest through actions, and no one exemplifies that better than Ryan.”
Ramczyk, 30, was taken by the Saints in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft and has since started in nearly every game he’s been healthy for. Widely regarded as one of the most technically sound and reliable right tackles in the game, he has earned All-Pro honors and has been a cornerstone of the Saints’ offensive success throughout the post-Drew Brees era.
A Surprise to Many
Despite his stellar career, Ramczyk’s elevation to captain was met with surprise from fans and commentators who expected the title to go to more vocal leaders like linebacker Demario Davis, quarterback Derek Carr, or even rising star Chris Olave. Social media buzzed with reactions ranging from confusion to praise, with some fans applauding Moore’s bold, merit-based decision, while others questioned whether a quieter figure could energize and unify the locker room during challenging times.
Saints veteran Cameron Jordan, himself a longtime captain, responded to the news with support: “Ryan’s been the anchor for our offense for years. He might not be the loudest guy in the room, but when he speaks—or when he plays—you listen. This team respects him.”
Ramczyk Responds
Taking the podium shortly after Moore’s announcement, Ramczyk appeared humble and slightly uncomfortable in the spotlight, yet determined to rise to the challenge.
“I’ve never been the guy to make speeches or be the face of things,” Ramczyk admitted. “But I care deeply about this team, this city, and what we’re trying to build. I’m honored by the trust Coach Moore and my teammates have placed in me. I won’t take it lightly.”
He went on to credit former captains like Brees, Terron Armstead, and Thomas Morstead for showing him what leadership means in New Orleans, adding, “It’s about doing your job every day and putting the team first, no matter what.”
A New Era of Leadership
Kellen Moore’s decision signals a potential shift in team culture—away from the big personalities and toward a more grounded, team-oriented leadership model. With the Saints undergoing major changes at coaching and roster levels, Ramczyk’s appointment may serve as a stabilizing force.
The 2025 season will be a critical one for the Saints, as they look to rebound from a string of inconsistent years and establish a new identity. Moore’s gamble on Ramczyk as captain is part of that broader strategy: emphasizing grit, discipline, and quiet confidence.
Whether this leadership shakeup will yield wins on the field remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—Ryan Ramczyk is now more than just a dominant lineman. He’s the face of a new era of Saints football.
