New Orleans Saints: UDFA Devin Ozigbo will make big impact

The New Orleans Saints found a real asset in undrafted running back Devine Ozigbo.

Primarily due to Drew Brees, the New Orleans Saints have consistently had one of the best offenses in the NFL throughout the last several seasons. Brees leads a well-oiled machine that is always among the leaders in most offensive categories.

In recent years, the Saints have leaned on the running game more than in the past. Mark Ingram and Alvin Kamara came together to make up one of the best running back duos in the NFL the past two seasons. Ingram has been the powerful inside runner while Kamara is the more explosive and elusive back who is a dynamic threat as both a runner and receiver.

The New Orleans Saints let Ingram walk in free agency this offseason and Kamara will likely step into a larger role in the offense. While giving the dynamic Kamara more snaps and touches certainly makes sense on the surface, the Saints need to be careful not to overwork their young star back.

Instead of giving Kamara a full load of carries, the Saints would be wise to work at least one other back into the mix. Latavius Murray is the most likely running back to take over Ingram’s role in the offense and Javorius Allen should not be ignored either. However, undrafted rookie Devin Ozigbo is an interesting sleeper candidate to take some snaps in the backfield.

Ozigbo is an extremely quick and explosive back who has obvious upside at the next level. He does a fantastic job of finding the correct hole quickly, shows great burst through the hole and finishes with surprising power. He is a tough runner who never gives up on the play and shows impressive contact balance.

There is a lot to like about Ozigbo’s game, but it is his overall athletic profile that immediately stands out. He tested extremely well at the Nebraska Pro Day and ended up putting together an impressive RAS score.

Compared to other NFL backs coming out of college, Ozigbo tested as a great athlete who is particularly impressive in the explosive testing measures. His obvious athleticism also shows up on the field as Ozigbo has a great combination of size, speed, quickness and balance that allows him to have consistent success.

Kamara is going to be the primary back in the Saints’ backfield. However, he is going to need some help. Murray can probably be productive in their offense, but Ozigbo provides much more long-term upside.

When it comes down to it, Ozigbo is an interesting player who could really shine in a Sean Payton offense. He should get an opportunity to prove himself, at least as a complementary player to Kamara.