7 Round Mock Draft: Saints Black and Gold Edition
The equivalent of Christmas day is coming for football fans and front office personnel alike. Opening day of the NFL Draft kicks off on April 27th. This will be our final mock draft put out before we learn who will actually join our beloved Saints. So gear up in your black and gold, and dive in.
AROUND COVER32
2017 NFL Draft: Could Myles Garrett fall to the Bears at number three overall
What’s Trending: Raiders cut Williams as door opens wider for Lynch’s return
Around the NFL: Three reasons why Sean McDermott will succeed as the new head coach of the Bills
cover32 Exclusive: Exclusive one-on-one interview with Northwestern EDGE prospect, Ifeadi Odenigbo
This Week in NFL History: Reliving the greatest moments in NFL history from April 23rd – April 29th
Round 1 Pick 11 – Marlon Humphrey (Alabama Cornerback)
The Saints definitely need an upgrade at the Cornerback position, and Humphrey can be that player. He’s an aggressive press man Cornerback that can step in and immediately fight his way into the rotation. Lattimore would have been an excellent pick as well, but he was drafted six picks higher by the Tennessee Titans. Taking Humphrey here, means we are banking on the coaching staff to help him utilize his impressive physical attributes.
Round 1 Pick 32 – T.J Watt (Wisconsin Linebacker/EDGE)
Though the Saints added some solid pieces in Linebackers Manti Te’o and A.J Klein, they can still use a versatile defender like Watt. Though he could be solid coming off of the edge, Watt could excel as a 3-4 Inside Linebacker. He has plus instincts in the run game, and can violently shed blockers. He has the advanced hand usage you’d expect from the little brother of J.J Watt (Houston Texans standout). A move inside could bode well for the former Badger.
Round 2 Pick 10 – Derek Rivers (Youngstown State EDGE)
In desperate need of a complimentary player for Cameron Jordan, Saints use their second round pick to snag small school standout Derek Rivers. Rivers had an excellent showing at the Senior Bowl and Combine leading to talks of a possible first round selection. He is a twitched up edge rusher that can convert speed to power easily. He is equally adept at speed rushing on the outside or coming at you with a straight bull rush. Rivers has a high ceiling and this selection could pay off for the Saints.
Round 3 Pick 12 – Pat Elflein (Ohio State Center/Guard)
Elflein was widely regarded as a first round pick last season. And while he lost some of the hype, he still has extraordinary value in the third round. He’s a very athletic prospect that fits the Mickey Loomis mold. He’s been an anchor for the Ohio State Offensive Line. Elflein has a well placed punch, and can generate movement in the run game. He’s a versatile interior lineman that can play both Guard and Center.
Round 3 Pick 39 – Larry Ogunjobi (Charlotte Defensive Line)
Round 6 Pick 12 – Aaron Jones (UTEP Runningback)
Round 7 Pick 11 – Chad Kelly (Ole Miss Quarterback)
The post 7 Round Mock Draft: Saints Black and Gold Edition appeared first on Cover32.
