New Orleans can find some gems in the late rounds.
The New Orleans Saints enter day 3 of the NFL Draft with five selections. It may be unlikely the Saints stay and pick at all of these selections, but with how many issues the roster still has, throwing as many darts as possible is the better option for where this team is. So, let us see how the board has fallen for the Saints on day 3.
Pick 112 – RB Cam Skattebo
The Saints go with the best available player on the board here and select ASU star running back Cam Skattebo. So far in this draft, Skattebo has fallen a bit down the board, which makes sense because of the worry of wear and tear. Many teams like to draft RBs who are “fresher” and younger. Still, with Skattebo, he is a dominant rusher who can easily bounce off tackles. He would add a different type of running game that would complement Alvin Kamara and Kendre Miller really well.
Pick 131 – OLB Antwaun Powell-Ryland
The top need on this roster is OLB, which is very important for the Saints moving to a 3-4 scheme. They have done really well to get players who can play that defensive end role in that scheme, but as of now, New Orleans does not have a real OLB on the roster. With pick 131, they go with this position and select Antwaun Powell-Ryland. He will be very scheme reliant due to his arm length concerns, but that should not be an issue with the Saints. Powell-Ryland is a dynamic pass rusher who excels in using all different ways to win against offensive linemen. In run defense, this is where his main issues come from. In the NFL, Powell-Ryland should be utilized primarily on passing downs.
Pick 184 – CB Zah Frazier
Besides OLB, cornerback is another massive need on this roster, and it needs to be addressed now. Luckily, cornerback Zah Frazier was still available at this pick. Frazier is an extremely athletic cornerback who shines in man coverage, but he needs to improve in zone. He is also a really good tackler, which is something the Saints have valued in this draft.
Pick 248 – WR Ja’Corey Brooks
The Saints go with the best weapon available here, and it is one of Tyler Shough’s favorite receivers at Louisville. Ja’Corey Brooks is great at adjusting to the ball and making great contested catches. Athleticism is a massive issue in his game, but Brooks makes up for it by making plays when needed.
Pick 248 – OG Connor Colby
With the last pick of the mock draft, New Orleans goes with the best guard available. There is still no long-term answer at LG, so taking a chance with a prospect in the seventh round never hurts.