The New Orleans Saints need help in the trenches, both offensively and defensively. One big ten prospect has been mocked to them in both the first and second round via different sources. The Saints attended his Pro Day on Tuesday.
Illinois DL Johnny Newton looks fully healthy ahead of the draft.
Newton's injury has made some folks about timid about his projection, but his athleticism and strength are among the best in the class. Before the injury news, he was widely expected to be a top fifteen pick.
Now, he could slip all the way into the middle of round two.
For New Orleans, they need more DL depth, especially inside after adding pass rusher Chase Young. Bryan Bresee flashed last season but is still a work in progress, overall.
Khalen Saunders is a good veteran presence but does not provide the pass rush ability of Newton or Bresee. The Saints must create more pressure on passers in 2024.
Newton, or a prospect like Byron Young, would immediately help in that regard if they go that route early in this year's draft.
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