NFC South: Falcons execute a brilliant draft strategy on Day 2 of NFL Mock Draft
By Beau Adams
Miami. Leonard Taylor. player. 15. DI. 34. Nsmd. . . Leonard Taylor
The Saints are using the No. 34 pick on Miami defensive tackle Leonard Taylor. Taylor slipped out of the first round, and the Saints hit on their biggest draft need.
Taylor is an all-around competent player with a suitable frame and is hard to block when his pad level is low. He can play a 3-technique in even fronts and be a 4i-tech in an odd-front team if necessary. He rapidly reacts to the snap and is good at getting penetration off the snap.
Taylor also has a solid physical presence at the point of attack against the run and can get an extension against offensive linemen. He has adequate quickness to elude offensive linemen and can win with pass-rush moves such as an arm over, stick, club-by, and hand swipe.
Taylor is as explosive as Jer'Zhan Newton, if not more so, and his 305-pound frame is surprisingly agile. He combines an explosive one-step burst with strength and power to penetrate gaps and beat blockers. His active and precise hands make it even easier for him to swim past opponents.
The Saints move on an interior anchor to build on the defensive line with Cameron Jordan. The two should cause offensive lines some extra film study in 2024, plus New Orleans will improve its run defense.