Function Over Flash: Saints Go Offensive Tackle And Linebacker In First Round Of NFl Draft

Andrus Peat and Stephone Anthony, come on down! Solidifying what was a porous offensive line and an even worse linebacking core may not be the most fan favorite of moves, but they certainly weren't without need. Was I, along with a majority of Saints fans, hoping for a true #1 wide receiver the likes of DeVante Parker? Yeah. was I interested in bringing aboard a big time pass rusher such as Bud Dupree? Absolutely. However the Saints, under Sean Payton, have shown they can do a lot with a little in terms of wide receivers when Drew Brees has time in the pocket. This is the same team, that is just one year removed from being one of the league leaders in sacks. This, among other issues, was the reason that the Saints unloaded Jimmy Graham, Kenny Stills, and Ben Grubbs for draft picks. There are a lot of holes to fill on this team and not a lot of money to do so. A solid, and deep, offensive line makes the entire offense more potent, even if it isn't obvious to the casual fan. A strong front seven makes the entire defense more formidable. There are plenty of receivers available in round two. With seven more picks throughout the draft the Saints brass, that has been fairly good at finding diamonds in the rough, should be sure  to find some impact defensive players over the next two days. 

Two sacks given up in over 400 snaps at Stanford? Is that good? Add in a quarterback that is as good at avoiding the rush as Drew Brees and we may never have to see #9 cleaning off his jersey again. Franchise tackles only come around once in awhile and Peat has all the makings of one. Anthony was the best player at a position that has been mediocre ever since Jonathon Vilma was manning the middle years ago. While he didn't receive the acclaim that Vic Beasley did, he was just as imperative to running Clemson's defense. These picks may not have been what Saints fans expected, or wanted, but they are two picks that should make this team better next year, and that's all you can ask for.