2020 NFL Draft: Zack Baun an impact addition for New Orleans Saints
Zack Baun did not go as early as was expected in the 2020 NFL Draft, but he is still a talented defender who can make an immediate impact for the New Orleans Saints.
The New Orleans Saints appear to be completely focused on taking advantage of their current Super Bowl window and their picks in the 2020 NFL Draft reflect that. It began with the selection of Cesar Ruiz in the first round. Ruiz is the best interior offensive lineman in the 2020 NFL Draft class and he will undoubtedly help take their already loaded offense to the next level.
Entering the draft, the linebacker position stood out as the most immediate position of need for the Saints. Many expected them to take LSU linebacker Patrick Queen with their pick at No. 24 when they ended up taking Ruiz, but the Saints were able to address linebacker later.
Zack Baun has been talked about as a fringe first-round prospect for months and for good reason. Baun is an athletic linebacker prospect who shows impressive upside as a pass rusher on the edge. He also has strong overall upside in coverage, showing impressive instincts and enough speed and quickness to defend most tight ends and running backs.
Baun is a bit of a tweener prospect, which is probably why he fell so far in the 2020 NFL Draft. However, he is still a talented player and the Saints sensed an opportunity to find an immediate impact player when they traded up to select Baun with the 72nd overall pick.
Next. Grading each first-round 2020 Draft pick. dark
With A.J. Klein leaving in free agency, the Saints have an immediate need at the linebacker position. Baun’s speed and natural playmaking ability would pair well with All-Pro Damario Davis. Baun should be able to come in and help fill the void left by Klein at the linebacker position. On top of that, he will likely provide value to the team as a pass rusher on the edge in certain situations. Fantastic value selection for the New Orleans Saints here in the third round.