2017 NFL Mock Draft: The Final Edition

Drafting a defensive player at this position makes a lot of sense, however, the Saints have two first round picks. With Jonathan Allen on the board, he’ll be hard to pass but with the upside that O.J. Howard has, it’s even harder. Having Coby Fleener as the starting tight end hasn’t exactly paid off. Has it been manageable? Sure but without Brandin Cooks, things could become more difficult in the Saints offense. However, adding someone like Howard could change that. <p>This would give the Saints a real double tight end option and there isn’t a better tight end in this class than Howard. He wasn’t properly used as a receiver in Alabama’s offense but he’s a great in-line blocker for a tight end. Outside of what he does as a blocker and a vertical threat receiving option, is the athletic ability that he possess. Here’s what Howard did at the Combine:</p> <p>Height: 6’6<br /> Weight: 252 lbs.<br /> 40-yard dash: 4.51 seconds<br /> Bench press: 22 reps<br /> Vertical jump: 30 inches<br /> Broad jump: 121 inches<br /> 3-cone drill: 6.85 seconds<br /> 20-yard shuttle: 4.16 seconds</p> <p>Within the Saints offense, he’d have his most productive days as a football player ahead of him. For the Saints, this should become a no brainer as they can line him up all over the field. </p>. Tight End. Alabama. O.J. Howard. 11. player. 15