Tyler Shough Sparks Hope About Caleb Downs-Saints Pairing

"Jonas Sanker did really well this year, he was balling," Shough said. "We've got [Justin Reid]. We've got a good group. But who knows? You've got Caleb on the board, anything can happen."

Shough also spoke very positively about wide receiver prospect Carnell Tate. If the Saints could land either Downs or Tate at No. 8, that would be a step in the right direction. Downs is a phenomenal prospect. NFL Network's Daniel Jeremiah has him ranked as the eighth-best prospect in the draft class.

"Downs is a versatile safety prospect with outstanding instincts and intangibles," Jeremiah wrote. "He moved around in Ohio State's scheme but primarily lined up underneath as a nickel, strong safety or nickel 'backer. In the passing game, he is a smooth mover and utilizes his eyes/instincts to close and limit windows.

"He's physical and has enough speed to mirror tight ends in man coverage. He didn't get challenged much at the college level, which limited his ball production, though he did snag a pair of interceptions in each of his three seasons. He is an outstanding blitzer, showing timing and feel. He excels against the run. He takes proper angles, attacks ball-carriers and is a dependable tackler. He handles most of the communication for the defense and the staff raves about his intelligence and leadership. Overall, Downs lacks "wow" traits, but he's a plug-and-play starter who makes others better around him."

If he's available at No. 8, arguably he would be a no-brainer pick. If he gets snatched up earlier and Tate is on the board, arguably he would be the best pick. The Saints added Etienne, so Jeremiyah Love, another popular prospect linked to New Orleans isn't necessary at this time. Adding a potential replacement for Taylor or a big-time receiver prospect would go a long way.