New Orleans Saints 2020 NFL Draft first-round targets

Starting LBs: Demario Davis, A.J. Klein, Alex Anzalone

Early in the year, Isaiah Simmons was projected to be a top-ten selection thanks to his rarely seen skill set combining the best aspects of both a slot corner and outside linebacker. Simmons has lined up in a variety of positions at Clemson, ranging from linebacker to safety, and draws comparisons to Panthers linebacker Shaq Thompson when he came out of the draft as a ‘tweener.’

Simmons going to the New Orleans Saints would likely require a trade up into the middle of the first round, likely sacrificing a second-round pick or more for such a player.

With a lack of talent not only at linebacker but also at cornerback, Simmons provides a unique versatile skill set that could address both issues on a snap-to-snap basis. His speed and range apply to both his pass coverage and pursuit and his build (6-foot-4, 229 pounds) is custom-made to match up against the NFL’s dynamic mismatch weapons at tight end.

The New Orleans Saints currently lack a true superstar in the middle of the defense, and a unique talent like Simmons could be the future of the New Orleans defense with his versatile skill set built for the future of the NFL with the continued popularity of the short-passing offense built out of the slot.