New Orleans Saints Complete 2014 NFL Mock Draft
By Erik Lambert
Oct 5, 2013; Dallas, TX, USA; Rutgers Scarlet Knights wide receiver Brandon Coleman (17) during the game against the Southern Methodist Mustangs at Gerald J. Ford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
There is no question the New Orleans Saints are a Super Bowl contender. Could a productive draft put them over the top?
#27 – Demarcus Lawrence – DE – Boise State
Cameron Jordan and Junior Gallette give the Saints inside pass rusher but to fully unlock their defensive potential they need an outside presence. Demarcus Lawrence has the length, explosion and athleticism to become that pest off the edge.
#58 – Pierre Desir – CB – Lindenwood
Depth at corner was exposed at some really bad times for the New Orleans Saints last season and can’t be allowed to happen again if they’re thinking championship. Pierre Desir has load of press coverage potential thanks to his size-speed combination and good technique.
#91 – Brandon Coleman – WR – Rutgers
Seattle showed that a lack of size was an Achilles heel for the Saints offense, something that must be corrected if the two teams meet again. Bringing in the 6’6″ monster Brandon Coleman from Rutgers would qualify as a favorable counter move.
#126 – Jordan Zumwalt – ILB – UCLA
Talent isn’t the problem anymore for the defense. Leadership is. They need a singular voice in that unit. Jordan Zumwalt proved that capability at UCLA, in addition to an impressive versatility that allowed him to play multiple positions at linebacker.
#167 – De’Anthony Thomas – RB – Oregon
Darren Sproles was a very hard loss for Drew Brees to stomach. Replacing him is going to be a challenge. Getting the dynamic De’Anthony Thomas would qualify as a heck of a first shot. Like Sproles he wins with speed, agility and vision to create big plays.
#169 – Tyler Larsen – C – Utah State
The New Orleans Saints were left in a tough spot when center Brian De La Puente spurned them in free agency to sign in Chicago. They have to shore up the depth there. Tyler Larsen isn’t a top athlete but he has technique, intelligence and vocals to handle the job.
#202 – James Hurst – OT – North Carolina
Maximizing late-round offensive linemen is a specialty of head coach Sean Payton and he’ll get another crack at it here. James Hurst was a top lineman before injury crippled his draft stock. He’s strong in his lower body, very smart and rarely suffers breakdowns in technique. If he can bulk up, the Saints might have a steal here.