Next up in the ‘Scouting the South’ series is the New Orleans Saints. How will their draft potentially impact the Buccaneers twice a year? Here is a breakdown.
The Saints’ draft selections:
- WR Chris Olave (11)
- OT Trevor Penning (19)
- CB Alontae Taylor (49)
- LB D’Marco Jackson (161)
- DT Jordan Jackson (194)
The NFL’s last ranked passing offense in 2021 needed a reboot and the organization addressed their needs with wide receiver Chris Olave and a left tackle to protect Jameis Winston in Trevor Penning. The team is counting on both being offensive catalysts. Prior to the Draft, the Saints traded away draft capital to acquire an additional pick in the first round, continuing their standard salary cap philosophy and management. With athletic footwork, a nasty demeanor and power at contact, New Orleans snagged Penning, who will replace their longtime starter Terron Armstead. Penning will undergo a learning and developmental period when the season starts, however, the Bucs will likely pick on the left side of the Saints’ formation as an ‘introductory welcome to the NFL.’
Olave, the club’s first overall pick, concluded his Buckeyes’ career as the team’s all-time leader in touchdown catches (35). He will step into the New Orleans’ offense as the WR2 opposite Michael Thomas. He possesses elite route acceleration, allowing him to win early in routes off his release package. Olave stretches the field vertically with downfield speed and the Bucs’ secondary will need to force him into contested catch situations and contain him downfield, using a two-high shell and Cover 4 on the back end to keep everything in front (making Olave settle for intermediate routes).
The Saints jumped into the top 50 for Alontae Taylor, a fast and physical player coming off a breakout campaign with the Volunteers last season. However, consistency and change-of direction ability are projected concerns. Both Jackson selections were aimed to add speed at both the D-Line and linebacker position spots. Like every…