Since 2007, the New Orleans Saints have not made a draft tradedown. Still, it seems like the Saints could make sense to do so this season. If they hope to remain competitive the following year, a number of their needs must be met. Increasing your pick inventory and trading back could help achieve that.
I sent picks 14 and 174 to the Cincinnati Bengals in exchange for picks 18, 80, and 115 in this draft. New Orleans is able to have two more selections in the top 120 as a result. They would be able to add more talented players to the roster as a result. If the Saints make that move, here’s one direction they could go with this draft.
Jer’Zhan Newton, an Illinois defensive tackle in the first round (pick 18)
I have Jer’Zhan Newton, an Illinois defensive tackle, going to the Saints with the 14th overall choice. The Saints should select Newton if they truly adore him, even though offensive tackle is a huge need. Other rounds provide choices at offensive tackle that might help add depth. Bryan Bresee and Jer’Zhan Newton might form a potent interior pair together if they enter.
One player who can cause problems in both the passing and running games is Jer’Zhan Newton. Newton recorded 7.5 sacks at Illinois the previous season. Opposing lineman would be in for a nightmare if he was paired with Bresee, who finished the season with 4.5 sacks. In the run game, Newton makes things complicated. He is able to close gaps and make it difficult for the running back to locate free space. Given that he captained the Illinois team, Newton is a leader. Although it might not seem like much, the Saints like choosing team leaders.