Cesar Ruiz among players to wear Saints No. 51 jersey

With 51 days until the New Orleans Saints’ season opener against the Detroit Lions on September 13, veteran guard Cesar Ruiz currently wears the No. 51 jersey. The number has been worn by 21 players in team history, including notable linebackers Sam Mills and Jonathan Vilma. Mills, who played from 1986 to 1994, transformed the Saints' defense and is celebrated for his contributions, including four Pro Bowl selections and induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Vilma, who joined the Saints in 2008, played a key leadership role in the defense that secured a Super Bowl title. Ruiz has held the jersey since 2020, continuing the legacy of impactful players in that number.

• 11:55 AMYahoo Sports — 51 days until Saints opener: Every player to wear the No. 51 jersey