The New Orleans Saints came into the 2022 campaign with depth concerns at the linebacker position. New Orleans signed veterans Eric Wilson and Jon Bostic during training camp to replace the departed Kwon Alexander, but neither were able to crack the active roster.
When Pete Werner went down with an injury at mid-season, those depth concerns were answered in a big way. Kaden Elliss had a breakout season to give the Saints one of the NFL's best trios of linebackers. However, Elliss left this offseason as a free agent.
New Orleans runs a lot of defensive alignments with just two linebackers and have one of the best duos around in Demario Davis and Werner. However, the lack of depth behind them is again a concern.
The Saints could bring in a veteran. Someone like Kwon Alexander would obviously be a great fit. It's also possible that the team selects another linebacker to go along with 2022 fifth-round pick D'Marco Jackson. They won't do it with a first-round pick in a class that looks to lack a slam dunk talent, but here's one project that could come off the board in Day 2.
Daiyan Henley, Washington St.
6'1" 225-Lbs. (Sr.)
A terrific athlete who started his career as a wideout at Nevada before switching to defense as a junior. After one redshirt year as a defensive back, he'd convert to linebacker in a Covid-shortened 2020.
Henley had 94 tackles, including 59 solo stops, for the Wolf Pack in 2021. He transferred to Washington State with his extra year of eligibility. Henley led the Cougars in total tackles (106), solo stops (54), and tackles for loss (12) while adding 4 sacks, an interception, and recovering or forcing five fumbles.
What Henley lacks in experience he makes up for with speed and aggression. His production has been impressive, but he's also often shown that he has a lot to still learn at the position.
Reps and experience should help, but Henley has exhibited below average reactive instincts. Better reaction to plays carry on even greater importance for him because his lack of size is already a hindrance in the tackle box against the run. He doesn't lack for aggressiveness, but his stature is a disadvantage against larger blockers. He also needs to hone his recognition to pick up keys when in pass coverage.
Henley flows to the ball fluidly against the run and has excellent sideline-to-sideline pursuit. His speed (4.54 in the 40) can make up for some plays when out of position. He'll fill a gap without hesitation to challenge blockers. He also shows explosive potential as a blitzer, both inside and on the edge, with ferocious closing speed to the ball.
Henley has the athleticism to take on backs or tight ends in man coverage all over the field. He also has the fluid change of direction to excel in zone responsibilities. His experience as a receiver and defensive back should also help him in route recognition.
Daiyan Henley is a raw project with tremendous upside. Early in his career he probably fits best for special teams duty and a linebacker in sub-packages. He's most likely going to come off the board in the middle rounds. However, don't be shocked if a team selects him during Day 2 because of his potential.
The Saints prefer athletic linebackers that can be factors all over the field. Henley must quickly improve his recognition skills, but has that kind of playmaking ability.
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