As the NFL Combine approaches, it becomes simpler to predict where some former Alabama Football players will wind up in the draft. Early on, two Alabama lineman may be in competition for the New Orleans Saints, potentially helping the team back to the postseason by 2024. The Saints will select 14th in the draft while also owning the 45th overall pick.
With the 14th pick, the Saints should consider adding JC Latham to play left tackle for the club. The team may have lost long-time right tackle Ryan Ramczyk, who has been dealing with cartilage concerns in his knee, casting doubt on his future prospects. The team has also seen previous first-round choice Trevor Penning struggle in the NFL, with some still believing he would be better suited as a guard.
The Saints have a solid offseason ahead of them as they prepare for a postseason run in a weak NFC South. One of the team’s main concerns in 2023 was protecting Derek Carr, who was sacked 31 times, resulting in long-term injuries in the second half of the season. Keeping Carr healthy should be the Saints’ top focus this offseason, which makes JC Latham an ideal possibility at 14.
The majority of the tackles in this year’s draft class have only played left tackle, but Latham has played right tackle, making him the greatest fit if Ryan Ramczyk is unable to play for the Saints in 2024. Many of the tackles ahead of Latham in mock drafts are considered developmental players, although Latham appears to be as versatile as any tackle in recent years, given his size and power. His effectiveness in pass protection, along with the height and speed to succeed in the run game, is the primary reason teams should be delighted to sign a player of Latham’s calibre.
On defence, the Saints took a step back, particularly in the trenches, where the squad struggled to pressure the passer. The Saints did not have any double-digit pass rushers in 2023, as several of the team’s players are beginning to show their age. Edge rusher Zach Baun will be a free agent, and the organization may release some veteran pass rushers to preserve cap money.
This could make Chris Braswell an ideal option for the Saints in the second round with the 45th overall pick. Braswell had a career season in 2023, recording eight sacks, three forced fumbles, and an interception while creating one of the nation’s greatest pass rush duos alongside Dallas Turner. Braswell’s size and frame will make him a standout prospect at the NFL Combine, and he could be one of the first-round picks. Adding Braswell to the Saints would provide the team with a youthful pass rusher for the future, helping the team prepare for the next era of Saints football.
Several additional Alabama football players could be suitable for the Saints.
Aside from Chris Braswell and JC Latham, the Saints may consider numerous additional candidates from Alabama. The team may attempt to add a running back to replace Alvin Kamara, which may bring Jase McClellan into action on Day 3. Justin Eboigbe, who is coming off a great year, might improve the Saints’ interior defensive line. With Demario Davis aging, the Saints may add Trezmen Marshall as a developmental player behind him. Many Alabama football alumni may choose to remain in New Orleans, but for the time being, all attention is focused on the NFL Combine.
Leave a Reply