The defensive trenches are still a need for the New Orleans Saints in the 2024 NFL Draft. Especially on the interior, they need more upside. Look no further than a local talent that could be available in rounds 3-5.
The Saints hosted a visit with LSU DL Maason Smith.
Smith is a great athlete for an IDL and provides unique pass rush upside the tother prospects in his range will not. In an interview with The Draft Network, Smith noted his pass rush expertise and skills.
I definitely feel like I’m more advanced as a pass rusher. That area of my game is very fluid. I like to switch it up as a pass rusher. For the most part, I just try to execute our game plan. I placed my faith in our coaching staff. Whatever that was, that’s what I did.
I wouldn’t necessarily say that I have a go-to move that I rely on. I watch a lot of film and pay close attention to my upcoming opponents. I identify which moves give them fits on tape and I try to replicate that. I want to see what they struggle with.
Keeping him in the state would be an awesome piece to begin his pro career as well.
The Saints have Bryan Bresee as a young interior player, and he flashed at times in 2023.
He'll look to build on that, but improvement on the interior pass rush will give him more chances to get to the QB. It will relieve some pressure on the 2023 first-round pick for New Orleans. Smith could help with that if the Saints target him.
Smith is Destin Adams' 12th-ranked IDL in this year's draft class.
With over twelve private visits with NFL orgs, Smith has been a popular prospect that may climb up the draft board. If the Saints want him, they may need to trade up with their massive day three capital to secure him in round three or four.
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