By: Courtney Burrows

The New Orleans Saints had a rough 2021 season riddled with injuries, then Head Coach Sean Payton retired, and star RB Kamara got into a fight in Vegas and has charges pending.  Needless to say, it has been tough, but I look to new Coach Allen and the 2022 draft to turn things around a rebuild his image.  I for one am excited as NO resigned Winston for another two years, as he knows the system, the locker room, and the coach, and he was proving his worth at 5-2 when he got hurt.  The Saints and the Eagles had a monster pick trade to upgrade us to TWO 1^st round picks. With that said, I’m going to outline a Saints mock draft in April! Let’s begin.

Round One-Pick 16- Matt Corral, QB Ole Miss

If anyone knows me and reads my articles, they know I love the Saints and Ole Miss, so I might be biased here, but he fits well!  At 6’1” and 205lbs, he is not the tallest, but neither was Brees.  The difference is Corral can run and run he does.  He calls plays at the line of scrimmage confidently and when he scrambles, his throws are not as accurate, but they still deliver. His lightning-fast release and pinpoint throws to receivers down the stretch extend the plays and allows wide outs to get yards after the catch.  He also is a leader on and off the field, and the Saints could use more of that in the coming rebuilding seasons.  I would like to see him sit one season and start next year, to bulk up some and adapt to NFL hits, pressure, and play style.  Corral finished his 2021 season with 3,343 passing yards, 614 rushing, and 31 touchdowns.  His arm strength alone makes him a first rounder, but what really makes him special is his mobility, mindset, perseverance, and leadership.  After the Eagles and the Saints trade, I still feel like they are moving up to draft a QB as there are numerous needy teams and not too many caliber QBs in this draft.  Having two 1^st round picks means QB and WR, no doubt!

Round One-Pick 19 Chris Olave, WR Ohio State

Why not give Michael Thomas a complement in the form of one Ohio State wideout to another?  Thomas was a former 2^nd round pick out of Ohio State, and I project Garrett Wilson (Ohio State) going before his teammate, which leaves the door open for Olave to become a Saint!  At 6’0”, and 197lbs, he isn’t the biggest WR in the draft, but he makes up for that in speed, route-running versatility, and ability to burn defenders for yards after the catch.  He could be Winston’s shifty player while Thomas is the #1.  As Winston looked to Callaway last year in the back of the endzone, it would be Olave now open deep, with sticky hand and vertical leap to destroy the red zone.  I love this potential, and now with two 1^st round picks, this all makes sense allowing the Saints to compete out of the gates under Coach Allen.  I do hope he bulks up some to be more physical in the NFL. **If he is already off the boards, this pick must be a WR.  We cannot pass up talent this early. **

Round Two-Pick 49 Kenneth Walker III, RB Michigan State

Let’s address the elephant in the room”¦running back, and more importantly the legal troubles of our star Kamara.  The trial has been postponed till late April, but felony charges aren’t something to joke about.  That being said, Kamara is 26 and though I feel he still has a few years left, we need more than Ingram and Jones backing him up in case.  If we are lucky enough to snag top prospect Walker here, I am all for it!  He was second in the FBS last season with 1,636 rushing yards and was a powerful, consistent back.  Walker is a quick cut machine that makes defenders miss.  He reminds me so much of Kamara how he runs with purpose and pushes forward with attitude.  Walker is not the most decorated receiving back in the draft, but he is talented and that could be utilized learning with Kamara and becoming a two-headed monster behind our line of scrimmage.  If Kamara has to sit a few games, Ingram and Walker would fill in nicely as well.  This is definitely a wish-list type of pick.  The Saints might wait a round or two for RB, but they need to capitalize on youth now especially with the unknown of Kamara. 

Round Three-Pick 98 Max Mitchell, OT LA-Lafayette

I would love for Coach Allen and the Saints front office to stay local and take a shot on this 6’6”, 299lbs tackle originally from Monroe, Louisiana. Starting as a sophomore after seeing some action as a freshman, he took 2701 collegiate snaps.  He is agile, quick off the line, and moves seamlessly both forwards, backward, and laterally.  One of his weaknesses is his bulk, he needs to add more muscle to be able to defend the pocket and not let it collapse, though he is great at reading defenders.  His senior year, he allowed only three sacks and total career, five.  That is a staggering low number, which just shows his consistency, dedication, and determination.  Watch some Ragin Cajun game tape, he is always present, rarely on his back, and a force to see on the line.   With the recent resigning to 1 year of OT Ethan Greenidge, the Saints still need OL depth and help with protecting the offensive playmakers, and Mitchell fills all of that. 

Round Three-Pick 101-Bryan Cook, S Cincinnati

With the free agency release of S Marcus Williams and recent signing of Daniel Sorenson, we still need young, eager safety depth.  This is where new Coach Allen gets to put him stamp on his defense.  Cook is 6’1”, 208lbs. and is strong, solid, and quick bursting into plays.  He is versatile and a real student of the game, which I think Coach Allen will love to mold further.  He watches the QB and tracks the ball all over the field.  His last season with the Bearcats, he recorded 96 tackles, two interceptions, and nine deflections, which earned him 1^st year All-Acc selection.  Cook is a little too “upright” when making open field tackles and needs to be more centered and drive receivers down for zero yards after the catch.  He will be a great addition to our defense who can learn from Sorenson and fill in as needed moving into a starting role next season. 

Round Four-Pick 120- Cole Turner, TE Nevada

Despite, Coach Allen reporting that Hill will “shift back into the TE position” he is 31 and has never really played an entire season as a tight end.  He takes multiple hits and runs with such force, that eventually his body will break down.  We saw it last season, as he battled injuries.  So, are you telling me he is now our starting TE?  Wrong, the Saints need young talent that can be further developed.  That is where Wolfpack Senior Turner comes into play.  This kid is big at 6’6” and 246lbs.  Athletic and flexible for his larger frame, he contests the ball in the air and comes down with it bulldozing his way into the endzone.  He started his collegiate career as a WR before moving into tight end, so transitioning him into the WR3/TE role would be a perfect fit for the Saints.  Turner is a later round sleeper pick who is rough around the edges, but has great potential.  Coach Allen’s specialty is defense, so he can help better his run blocking and bulk up in his lower body to become even better off the line.  Turner has the ability to become a starting in the NFL given the right fit, and with Trautman as his only young competition on the team, I like his outlook!

These might be far-fetched picks for some, but for the first time in a long time, the Saints need to focus on rebuilding the offense! Last year I went 2/4 in picks. I am shooting for more this year so stay tuned and good luck to all your favorite teams in the draft. Only 29 more days, but hey who’s counting. WHO DAT!!!! Follow me at @luvtractor3 all season long.

The post New Orleans Saints mock draft 2022 appeared first on Pro Football Mania.

By: Courtney Burrows

Now that the Superbowl is officially over and there is (gulp) 206 days until the 2022 season, we dive headfirst into free agency, dynasty, rookies, and the draft.  Superbowl LVI saw the Rams defeat the Bengals 23-20 in a battle till the end.  There are numerous free agents on both sides of the ball who are hoping to either resign or move to another team. 

Cincinnati Bengals

TE-CJ Uzomah

Drafted in the 5^th round in 2015, Uzomah has been a mainstay for the team.  He played only 2 games in 2020 and many thought he was fading into the background.  He came back staying in sync with Burrow for five touchdowns and 493 yards.  Now, those aren’t insane TE numbers, but they are decent and consistent especially when you consider he is the 3^rd to 4^th target on the team.  It’s always hard to lose a player that has been with the team since the beginning, but they do two other TEs on the roster, (though I believe Uzomah to be a better pass-catcher than Sample).  I think they keep Uzomah due to his big middle-of-the-field presence, chemistry with Burrow, but he is coming off an MCL sprain that could be lingering.   

Prediction: Retained( but really depends on money)

CB Eli Apple

Apple unfortunately was the defender that allowed Cooper Kupp to score the game-winning touchdown in the Superbowl.  This after much controversy has surrounded him when in the last few weeks he has taken to Twitter to speak of his distaste of the Saints and Giants (two of his former teams).  These Twitter comments have included hating the fanbase to the actual cities themselves.  While in New Orleans he had 11 passes defended and only one interception, and in 30 games with the Giants, he was suspended and only racked up 102 tackles.  It seems to me that someone with a rocky background should keep his head down and just play hard to win every game and prove his worth.  I don’t think this time he did.  This season with the Bengals, he had 11 assists and two interceptions.  There are younger, stronger, faster CBs out there not only in the draft but coming up in free agency like Casey Hayward Jr, or Steven Nelson.

 Prediction:  Released

QB Brandon Allen

It is quite obvious Allen is a backup and Burrow is not going anywhere anytime soon, but when Burrow went down last year, it was Allen who stepped in.  He has learned under Coach Taylor’s offensive system and has developed a great rapport with Burrow.  At 29 years old, it might be smart to retain him one more year and make a trade for a younger back up next year as there will be lots of QB shuffling this off-season.  Allen fits well behind Burrow, and with the Bengals looking to make another run at the big game next season, it makes sense to prioritize your off-season elsewhere than another QB.  During the 2021 season when Allen stepped in, he threw for 925 yards and five TDs.  He has proven himself to be coachable, consistent, and able to do the smaller tasks asked of him. 

Prediction:  Retained

Los Angeles Rams

WR Odell Beckham Jr.

After numerous up and downs seasons with the Browns, OBJ signed a one-year deal with the Rams.  We all know now that the Rams organization was “all-in” signing all the missing pieces to make a Superbowl caliber team, and that helped propel them to Superbowl Champions.  Immediately following the Superbowl win, OBJ tweeted he really wanted to stay in LA and was even willing to take a salary cut, and that is good news considering the Rams’ salary cap.  OBJ came up big when Robert Woods went on IR and complemented Kupp as a huge red-zone target.  He genuinely seemed to mesh with this team well, and there were no on or off-field antics swirling around him.  Maybe the sea air refreshed him enough to focus on football and the job he was paid to do.  In 9 games with the Rams, he had 359 yards on 31 receptions and five touchdowns.  He was instrumental in the first quarter of the Superbowl for Stafford catching the 1^st TD of the game.  I feel teams will be gunning for him after his turnaround time with the Rams, but I think the Rams would be wise to hold on to him one more year, especially at a discount as they make another run for the glory.

Prediction: Retained

RB Sony Michel

Akers is back and Henderson looked good as the passing-back in the Rams Superbowl victory.  Michel was the lead back Weeks 13-16 when Henderson went down carrying the ball for 423 yards, and overall had 845 yards and four TDs last season.  He is a great 3^rd-down back but struggles in the passing game.  I would love to see him in Atlanta complementing Patterson.  I think Davis is not a viable option, and I am guessing that Atlanta focuses on a QB in RD 1 or 2 to rep and learn behind Matt Ryan.  Don’t forget Michel is a graduate of Georgia, so coming home probably has a nice ring to it. 

Prediction:  Released

OLB Von Miller

Oh, how I love Von.  I loved watching him lead the defense for years with Denver and when he went to the Rams, my first thought was”¦they are going to win the Superbowl with him!  He is 32 and will be 33 before the start of the 2022 season, but when healthy he is a beast, and that may carry a high dollar price.  I could see him wanting to see what else is out there as he contemplates retirement within the next few years, but what could be better than LA”¦sun, sand, and another run at a back-to-back Superbowl appearance?  He most likely will desire to stay with the Rams, but they might not be able to afford him.  If he is willing to lower his salary terms, maybe, but there are plenty of teams that would love him for one to two more years including the Cardinals, Colts, Bears, and Raiders. 

Prediction:  Released (unless a lower salary is bargained)

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By: Courtney Burrows

Week 1 is in the books and what a wild one it was to start off the 2021-22 NFL season.  There have been many off-season stories that have left us scratching our heads and others that have us jumping in anticipation.  (Or wait, is it only me jumping!)  All I can say is Week 1 delivered highs and lows for me and others in the fantasy community, and I am very happy that football is back. There were crazy games and players who shined and crashed, but the best game in my opinion of the week was New Orleans Saints versus Green Bay where the Saints came marching in and roasted the Packers 38-3.

                The Packers came to Jacksonville to play the Saints who were displaced by Hurricane Ida. The Saints were led by QB Jameis Winston who won the starting job from Taysom Hill in the pre-season. This was the first game the team played without their leader Drew Brees under center. No one knew what to expect or what to feel, but this die-hard Saints fan knew Winston would be our guy and have been rooting for him. 

In Winston’s last season with the Bucs, he threw for 5,109 yards, 33 touchdowns, and 30 interceptions. He was released by the team, and no one wanted to give the once 1^st round draft pick a starting chance. So, he became the 3rd string behind Brees and under Coach Payton’s regime and began to study quietly with his head down, determined, and focused. This is a new Winston under center, a leader in the locker room determined to prove he is the right QB to once again lead a team, and prove he did in Jacksonville Saturday afternoon.

                The Saints defensive attack led by Zack Baun who had five tackles made Rodgers scramble and throw erratically which is not the steady hand we are used to seeing.  Rodgers ended with two interceptions, 15 completions on 28 attempts, and a passer rating of 36.8%.  He could not get anything done in the red zone with his star wideout Adams and star RB Jones was unable to go anywhere on the ground.  The Saints defense came to play, and with them making stop upon the stop, the offensive had ample opportunity to carve up plays. The time of possession was almost a full 10 minutes over the Pack.  Kamara led the rushing attack with 83 out of 171 total yards. Winston only had 148 yards in the air, but they were calculated and precise with zero interceptions, five total touchdowns to four different receivers, and a passer rating of 130.8%. The most surprising was 2^nd year TE Juwan Johnson he hauled in two touchdowns and will be another hot wavier wire this week. Though fellow TE Trautman led the team in targets, Johnson is only owned in 1.8% of ESPN leagues. 

The one injury of note is star pass-rusher Marcus Davenport, who ended Sunday with three tackles and one sack, underwent an MRI to see the extent of an apparent pectoral muscle injury which was deemed a strain not a tear.  This is fantastic news for the defensive as he should return sooner than later.  In the meantime, Carl Granderson and rookie Payton Turner will have to step up in a big way. 

For a guy that no one had much faith in besides the WHODAT nation, Winston did well and proved many doubters wrong.  He and the Saints decimated and embarrassed the Packers in the Sunshine State.  It won’t be a walk in the park in every contest for the Saints, but this is a confidence builder. All the parts fit together to make one cohesive, strong unified team under one of the best coaches in the game today. I am proud of Winston and his character today. I look forward to this season, and can’t wait for Sunday Funday.

#WHODAT

Find me on twitter at luvtractor3 for any questions and just for everyday football fun. 

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By: Courtney Burrows

The New Orleans Saints held mandatory training camp June 15-17 and already there is buzz amidst the rookies and the veterans. Obviously, the biggest story coming out of training camp that everyone wants to know is who will start under center come fall.  Everyone knows that Taysom Hill replaced injured Brees after Week 10 and preformed well. Coach Payton likes him and his versatility on the field as a mobile QB with great arm and leg strength.  Hill helped the team when most it was most needed, but does he have the perseverance and execution to lead the team all season? The main issue is that Jameis Winston has real time starting QB experience, and has guided a team and locker room.  Though Winston is known for his turnovers in his last season with the Buccaneers, he also led the league in passing yards and 33 touchdowns.  Winston is known for his deep passing skills and after spending a year under Brees and Coach Payton’s direction, I truly believe he is the best to lead the team going forward.  Google Winston today, and you will find training video after video.  He is trying to prove to himself and the Saints, but I believe he is ready and the right choice. 

The biggest question is who besides Michael Thomas will catch those deep shots?  With the departure of Emmanuel Sanders to Buffalo, there hasn’t been much coming out of the Big Easy pointing us to who will step up.  Will it be second year, undrafted Marquez Callaway, or Tre’Quan Smith as Deonte Harris will most likely be WR#4 and continue to thrive on special teams.   Smith has the foot speed and long arms to be on the receiving end of Winston’s ringers thrown towards the end zone. Remember in Week 17 when he caught a 56-yard bomb from Winston in a trick play?  We Saints fans surely do, but we also remember that undrafted rookie Callaway caught 21 passes, and he too has lightning speed and quick, elusive route running that make him hard to defend.  This is a tough call, both players are fast with long strides and sticky hands that contest the jump ball and win.   Coach Payton is known for finding diamond in the rough undrafted rookies and making them shine, so my gut says Callaway can and will emerge as the clear complement to Thomas this year. 

Let’s look deeper at Smith. At 6’2”, he has the build of a great NFL wideout, but he has yet to be full on consistent.  In his best season yet, 2020 he produced 448 yards on 34 receptions so the potential is there as he can break away from defenders and manage high yards after the catch.  Yet, he only seemed to flourish under pressure when Thomas was out and the Saints were desperate.  Will he use pressure to motivate him to move past Callaway on the depth chart or will he let his inconsistency come to a head yet again.  He has had four years to move up the ranks and prove himself, and at times he does, but at other times, he looks like a borderline WR3/4 only.  I really like Smith and his abilities, but I feel like it should have happened by now, his breakout that is.  He shows flashes of greatness and no one can deny his hands, but we need consistency to help the offense compete for the top of the NFC South. Callaway as well is 6’2”and was undrafted but picked up by the Saints.  Last season in his rookie debut, he has 21 receptions for213 yards.   Granted, he only played in a few games like Week 5 where he was targeted six times for 34 yards.  The main difference between these two guys is that Callaway seems to be more versatile, even though Smith has more experience in the big game.  He has played on special teams as a swift punt and kickoff returner as well as wideout, and we know how much Payton loves gadget players.  The Saints need a new spark, one that will help to elevate the offense.  I believe that player is Callaway.  Give the young man a chance to break out his sophomore year and complement Thomas like the great wideout duos in the league. 

Thomas will be given the majority of shares as he himself is determined to prove that last year was a fluke and he is a Top 10 WR in this league, but not every ball can go to him or Kamara.  That is why it will be fun to see who Payton and offensive coordinator Carmichael plug in to play.   I have no doubt that Winston will start come September, and that Smith might be the one running routes in the beginning, as Smith is known for be on the receiving end of long shots downfield which is what Winston, but Callaway is the future and he will get his chance to truly shine and come out on top.  As a diehard Saints fan, I am definitely nervous about a new era without Brees, but excited for out future especially with rookies and sophomores who are in it to win it.  I have blindly trusted Coach Payton in the past and will again.  So, if Callaway is on your wavier wire in dynasty or redraft, take a flyer on him! 

The post New Orleans Saints: What does the QB and WR position look like? appeared first on Pro Football Mania.

By: Courtney Burrows

So, the draft has come and gone, and now it is time to grade teams, picks, and potential future of these young athletes.  Back in the beginning of April, I wrote an article for a Saints Mock Draft and selected Pete Werner, LB out of Ohio State in their 3^rd round.  As we now know, the Saints landed Werner in the 2^nd round at Pick 60^th overall, which I do think might have been one round too early.  The Saints have drafted five Ohio State players in the past few years that have performed well for us like WR Michael Thomas and CB Marshon Lattimore.  So needless to say, The Saints have had success with Buckeyes!  Here’s to hoping that Werner makes the same big name for himself in the Big Easy.  Linebacker was also an immediate need the Saints had to fill with the loss of Alex Anzalone and Kwon Alexander in the offseason.  Pete Werner can and will be an immediate starter. 

Werner is a stout run defender who is fast and athletic for his 6’2” 242 lb. frame. At Ohio State, he led in 2020 with 54 tackles and was second on the team in 2019 with 64 tackles.   He should immediately step into the WLB role alongside Demario Davis, who was named a first-team All-Pro in the NFC by the Associated Press.   Werner fits well as he should be able to hold the line while the more athletic and quicker Davis can move off and pounce in the open field. Having both strong defenders in the middle of the line will help to stop the run and rush the pass. Ultimately, this will help the Saints to continue to compete in the NFC South.  Werner is an extremely smart player who fits into Coach Payton’s defensive scheme and will help round the front seven.  The one thing I notice from watching the tape was that he is not strong with open field tackling he is fast and gets there but needs to fine-tune and wrap up tight ends and others, but that is definitely something that is coachable.  I feel he will give the defending NFC and Super Bowl Champ Buccaneers’ TE Gronkowski and run for his money.

Will Pete Werner be a Pro Bowler for the Saints?  That is the question that all fans look at when combing over rookies and what they can do for the team.  I would like to hope that the combination of Davis and Werner translate into a new era similar to when Jonathon Vilma and Scott Fujita ran the defense and helped the Saints win Super Bowl XLIV.  Vilma was the leader and tremendous in coverage and Fujita helped to the line and stop the rush.  Though Fujita was never a Pro Bowler, Vilma was named to the Pro Bowl and All-American Team multiple times.  In the Saints Super Bowl season, Vilma had 58 to Fujita’s 43 solo tackles.  They both were a defensive wall that stopped many opponents in their tracks.  This is the future for the Saints defense.  Davis should step up and become the leader that the front seven need, and with that will come helping the young, talented Werner.  Together they will continue to disrupt defensives and keep the Saints on track to again fight for their place atop the NFC South.  So, the question is will Werner become a Pro Bowle? Yes, in time I think he has all the pieces to become one, but first Davis will get that honor this year and help to mold Werner into our future. 

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Day one of the 2021 NFL Draft is in the books.  How did your favorite team do?  The Bears have the steal of the draft with Ohio State’s QB Justin Fields at Pick 11.  The Raiders left most scratching their heads with Alabama’s OT Alex Leatherwood at Pick 17 when there were bigger needs still on the board. 

My beloved New Orleans Saints had Pick 28 and had been rumored to have been in talks all day with other teams for potential trades to move up.  My gut tells me they were trying to move up for one of the top QBs or WRs, but when that didn’t happen the expectation was to take a CB, DE, or WR.  My blood pressure was rising, the tension in the air was thick and looming. 

As I saw the Titans take CB Caleb Farley at Pick 22, I thought there was a chance for us to grab another highly ranked CB and even potentially take Ole Miss’s star WR Elijah Moore.  Remember our famous QB Archie Manning, who graduated from Ole Miss, and son Eli Manning followed him there years later?  Of course, you do, so the Saints and the Rebels have a long history together, which made me even giddier to think about Thomas and Moore running slants and catching touchdown passes. 

At this point, I’m on my feet with nervous anticipation.  This pick is in and with the 28 pick the Saints choose Payton Turner, DE out of Houston.  My jaw drops, and I am confused.

Let’s go back to 2018, when the Saints traded up to Pick 14 and selected Marcus Davenport out of Texas-San Antonio.  He definitely wasn’t immediate starter material as he was viewed as a developmental player, our defensive future.  Davenport has not lived up to his expectations.  He recorded three sacks his rookie season, a few more in 2019, then seemed to regress.  He has not panned out to be the elite pass rusher the organization thought he would become. 

Flash forward to 2021, Turner was not expected to go until the late 2^nd or 3^rd round.  He is 6’6” and 268lbs and was a three-year starter at Houston with a 4.25 short shuttle on pro day.  Needless to say, he is fast and explosive off the line with long arms, but was he the elite 1^st round pick the Saints needed? 

Still on the board were DEs Joe Tyron Washington, Gregory Rousseau, Miami, CBs Eric Stokes, Georgia, Asante Samuel Jr, FSU, and Elijah Moore, WR Ole Miss.  I do believe that any of the players would have been an immediate need filled and potential future face for the Saints. 

The Saints really needed a top-tier CB to play opposite Lattimore. The team also desperately needs a strong receiver to help elevate whoever is under center and take pressure off Thomas as he looks to bounce back from 2020. Yet, here we are. As any good faithful fan and fantasy football guru knows, you must dig deeper, watch a few tapes, and realize that an NFL organization might know more than we do.  So, that’s what I did.  Turner is a beast and superbly athletic.    

He needs fine-tuning, but he showed great progress in the last three years at Houston.  He posted 68 solo tackles and 9.5 sacks in his collegiate career.  The Saints must compete even harder now in the NFC South with the loss of Brees.  The Superbowl defending champions Buccaneers have an incredible defense and brought back all their key players and will continue to add to that in the draft. 

If the Saints have added depth to the defensive front with Turner to keep atop their division, then I hope to not be bitter.  Turner might just be the surprise draft pick. The change in NOLA, the player that bolts off the edge, rushes the offensive line and gets to the QB, specifically Brady, and if that happens, then I am a happy fan. 

The more and more I dive into Turner’s playing ability and potential, the more I like the pick.  It might take some time for me to shake the feeling of what-ifs, but as a devout WHO DAT nation member, I have to respect the pick and look to round two where we must get a WR to complement Thomas.  I also have to trust the process and trust the fact that the organization remembers the Davenport pick and we don’t forget, I hope they didn’t either.  Welcome, Payton Turner to New Orleans!

The post Breaking down the Saints first round draft pick appeared first on Pro Football Mania.

By: Courtney Burrows

The New Orleans Saints are looking forward to the 2021 Season to try and build on the legacy of their years of NFC South dominance behind Drew Brees.  Now that Brees has retired, the team really needs to come together and fight for each other and the beloved city in which they play.  There are many players on defense and offense that need to step up and prove that they are ready to be a leader on the field and in the locker room. 

Michael Thomas, WR- Though it was not all his fault, as he played most of 2020 with a nagging ankle and recurring hamstring injury, Thomas left a bad taste in the football world as he had a lackluster season.  There were already rumors of Brees retiring and what a season it was destined to be for the QB/WR duo.  In 2019, he set the single-season reception record with 144th career catch passing Marvin Harrison and ended up with 1,725 yards, and then fell to hit the mark with only 438 in 2020.  Elite receivers in this league can be up and down, especially after their main QB leaves as a new rhythm must be established.  Welcome to the off-season, where Thomas has been catching with Winston and Hill to get comfortable with both.  Thomas is entering the 2021 season healthy and 29 years old.  He can still produce but must prove that he can get separation from defenders and corners and get open for deep balls and shorter passes and then use his acceleration to beat coverage.  Since we don’t know who will be under center for the Saints, we don’t know arm strength or accuracy and Thomas must be prepared for it all, whatever is thrown at him.  Thomas must regain his phenomenal level of play so that the Saints can justify keeping him.  The Saints should draft a rookie slot receiver to complement him which can take some load off Thomas’s shoulders, but he must produce in 2021 or he might just find a new home in 2022. 

Jameis Winston QB- We all know the story of Winston’s fall from grace as a Buccaneer.  He was a Heisman winner drafted first overall in 2015 becoming the third rookie to throw for over 4,000 yards.  He continued to produce in the NFL, but in 2019 he set the record for interceptions returned for touchdowns in a season.  The Buccaneers did not resign him, and he landed in New Orleans to potentially back up future Hall of Famer Brees.  Though, he did not see much playing time in 2020, as the Saints used Hill to replace injured starter Brees, Winston did appear in Week 9 against his former team, and then faced them again as he came in on a trick play in the Divisional Playoff Game and threw a 56-yard touchdown pass to Tre-Quan Smith.   If anyone has something to prove to not only The Saints for signing him but to the entire NFL, it is Winston.  He was a turnover and interception machine last time he was a starter, and if he wants to be the head of the Saints’ offense, he must produce.  Winston needs to prove that he has matured, studied, become a more patient passer, and show that he has put in the hard work since leaving the Bucs to be named a starter again and lead a team.  I expect the Bucs to be the presumed NFC Champs and the ones to beat as reigning Superbowl champs, but if Winston can play like a man with a mission, listen to his coaches, put any ego aside, and get the naysayers out of his head, I think he could be the one facing the Bucs in the Divisional Game again and walking away victorious. 

Tayson Hill QB- If we are going to talk about the elephant in the room surrounding the Saints 2021 starting QB, Hill must be mentioned as someone with lots to prove.  Coach Payton turned to Hill in Week 10 after Brees was ruled out, and he threw for 233 yards and rushed for two touchdowns against the Falcons.  Hill continued to get the start and had ups and downs, but he seemed to find more success rushing and scrambling then throwing.  If anyone has the most to prove, it is Hill.  He has a new 4-year contract and will compete with Winston for that starting job under center.  Is he simply a utility player that can throw, rush, block, and confuse defenses, or is he the real deal learning for the past few years under Brees?  Only time will tell, but Hill should be practicing and connecting with all his weapons and becoming one with his offensive line to prove that he has the stuff.  Payton trusted him once to lead the offense, which left most in the NFL wondering why, but then we saw glimpses of strength, athleticism, and determination that can translate well under center, and if anyone can nourish that it is Sean Payton.  I for one and excited to see who is given the reigns come September. 

Marcus Williams Safety- The Saints placed a franchise tag on Williams who was drafted in the 2^nd round in 2017 and has played every season since in New Orleans.  Williams is best known for the blown tackle in the NFC Divisional Game vs the Vikings dubbed the Minneapolis Miracle, but he didn’t give up.  Instead he worked harder and got more efficient at tackling.  Last season, he had 59 total tackles and three interceptions and was pivotal in the defense ranking 4^th in the NFL with an average of 300 yards per game allowed.  Williams must continue to step up and prove that he was worthy of the tag especially now that other key defensive players left in free agency.  I see the Saints drafting a WR and an CB as first priorities, so Williams must be the leader of the secondary keeping their opponents off the field so that the offense can do their job without Brees leading the way. 

Sean Payton Coach- Even though he isn’t a player, Payton has a lot to prove this upcoming season to himself, the league, and most importantly his team as they move on from Drew Brees and their 15-year offensive brilliance that led the team to one Superbowl win and multiple Divisional wins and appearances.  Can Payton make the right moves to keep his team in the NFC South race and Superbowl contention?  Payton has a master offensive mind creating plays that keep defenses scratching their heads, but he always had Brees with the talent to execute those plays.  He must make decisions now based on lesser talent but still talent nonetheless and other coaches with fewer excelled players have risen, so will Payton.  If Thomas bounces back and Kamara keeps grinding, then the rest should fall into place.  They must draft a slot receiver and hope that last year’s draft of Adam Trautman at TE will pan out.  Coach must place full trust in Cam Jordan to lead the defensive so that he can put the pieces back together on offensive and rise to the top again where the Saints and the city of New Orleans belong. 

What do you think? Of course, there are others who will step up and shine and others that will fade. I am looking forward to watching the coaches and players continue to flourish even though the 15-year dream of the Future HOF Drew Brees era is over and walk gloriously into the light of NFC stardom and continued league respect. The Saints as a whole will have chips on their shoulders losing yet another Divisional Round and not finishing where they desired. I believe they all will have something to prove and say, “Yes we lost one of the greatest, but together we are still phenomenal.” #WHODAT!

The post 5 Saints with the most to prove in 2021 appeared first on Pro Football Mania.

By: Courtney Burrows

The off-season for the New Orleans Saints was a doozy, wasn’t it.  We said goodbye to the leader of the pack, Drew Brees.  The Saints resigned CB PJ Williams, S Marcus Williams, QB Jameis Winston, and brought EDGE Tanoh Kpassagnon over from the Chiefs.  They also added Ty Montgomery and Dwayne Washington both running backs who will contribute mightily to special teams and returns.  The Saints also released LB Kwon Alexander, TE Jared Cook, WR Emmanuel Sanders, DT Sheldon Rankins, and Malcom Brown, CB Janoris Jenkins, DE Trey Hendrickson, and punter Thomas Morstead.  Needless to say, there are holes to fill that can be addressed in the draft but some can be fixed right now.  The Saints cleared up $111 million in cap space to releases, retirements, contract restructures, so let’s look at the top 3 free agency needs for the Saints and how they might be secured. 

KJ Wright Linebacker- Wright is 6’4” and 246 lbs. and has not yet been resigned by the Seahawks and reports out of Seattle state that they are not interested either, so he could be cheap and would be able to step in day one and produce.  In 2020, he had 86 tackles and 11 for losses, he is been a quiet, consistent linebacker.  Even tough he turns 32 this summer, if the Saints drafted a LB, Wright could be the plug and play needed while the new prospect develops under the coaching staff.  This would be a very low risk move by the Saints, as Wright was already passed over the Cowboys which should make his price even lower now.  Wright wants to play and given the chance despite his age, could easily move onto the line and help the Saints fill immediate holes. 

Richard Sherman Cornerback-The Saints have an all-star CB in Marshon Lattimore but releasing Jenkins hurt in having a reliable, speedy corner to complement him.  The re-signing of Jenkins helps but having to rely on other defensive backs to cover is not ideal.  There are many great talents in the draft that the Saints could easily slot into the role, but for now, let’s shift our eyes to veteran Sherman to help the defense cover the slot.  Sherman is aging and missed out on numerous 2020 games due to injury, but don’t sleep on him just because he is older.  Remember Sherman is a 5-time Pro Bowler and elite secondary machine that plays with grit and fire in his belly.  In just five game sin 2020, he still managed 18 combined tackles, one pass defended, and one interception.  The point is Sherman can still produce and should be a steal in terms of money because so many teams have already passed him by.  New Orleans is a perfect fit for a 1 to 2-year contract for Sherman.

Jurrell Casey DT- Losing defensive tackles Rankins and Brown definitely hurt the Saints, but salary cap had to be refined.  Casey is someone that makes me scratch my head in wonder because his 2020 season was cut short due to a bicep tear, so can he regain his explosive power?  Is he worth the gamble and cheap enough to consider?  Those questions I cannot answer, but in 142 career games, Casey has had 51 sacks and 507 tackles.  Again, this is another aging player who might be worth the risk for a year to help round out the defense for the Saints.

Bottom line is that the Saints need to address more defensive free agents now so that they can focus on the offensive side of the ball earlier in the draft.  That does not mean that they ignore talented, raw defensive players that fall in their laps like a potential DE or LB in rounds three and four.  The Saints first grab in round one should be a wide receiver to complement Thomas as they must rebuild the confidence in the offensive after losing Brees, unless they make a move up for a shot at a QB.  If that does happen, round two should then be a WR.  I also could see the Saints grabbing a cornerback in round two, which means adding Sherman now for security and depth makes perfect sense. 

The post Remaining Free Agent Targets for New Orleans Saints appeared first on Pro Football Mania.

The NFL Draft is less than 28 days away which is both exciting and anxiety-ridden as we wait to see where out favorite rookies will land and who our favorite team takes.  As a rookie off-season fan, I have studied and gone back and forth on the first two rounds meticulously.  There is a plethora of information out there on these first rounds, but what about the deep sleepers, the last ones on the board, and the guys not talked about much?  Remember James Robinson who went undrafted and had an incredible rookie year as the Jaguars starting RB, of course, you do and so do I. 

Let’s dive deep into those sleeper picks who might help you in a dynasty startup or a bench spot because they should be and will be drafted!

1.  Dez Fitzpatrick WR, Louisville.  Fitzpatrick finished his 2020 season with 833 yards and four touchdowns which isn’t as impressive as the top tier rookie wideouts, but at Pro Day he ran a 4.43 40-yard and had a 35-inch vertical jump.  He is lean, strong, and can win the contested deep ball.  Fitzpatrick runs crisp routes and can beat the corners with his speed downfield.  He isn’t flashy, but he is consistent as he finished his collegiate career with 2,589 yards and 21 touchdowns.  He would be an excellent late 3^rd to mid-4^th round pick.  His potential to be a WR3 on a strong offensive-minded team is there. 

2. Jaret Patterson RB, Buffalo.  There are numerous high-end running backs in this year drafts, and quite possibly Patterson isn’t one of the names you have heard.  Well let me tell you, there isn’t much on the field this young man can’t do.  Patterson is versatile running inside the tackles, weaving in between defenders, and yearning for the endzone. He is patient, consistent, and sturdy.  In 2020, he ran for 1,072 yards on 141 attempts and 19 touchdowns as he averaged 7.6 yards per carry.  He can carry a full workload of a game, but he might work better in a RBBC, but he will be a steal for any team. 

3. Cade Johnson WR, South Dakota State.  Johnson is not your typical size threat of the long, lean WR in the NFL as he only stands 5’10” and 180lbs, but he is special.  He has exceptional speed and quickness off the line that leaves defensive backs shaking their heads.  He has superb hand-eye coordination and tracks the ball and is able to hold on seemingly in all situations, which is what stands out most to me”¦his hands.  They are solid and secure and in his 2018 and 2019 season he had zero fumbles!  His smaller stature might throw some scouts off his trail, but that would be a waste as Johnson can easily be a WR2 within a year or two.  He should go off the boards in the 3^rd but it might not happen till the 4^th round. 

4. Kenny Yeboah TE, Ole Miss.  I might be partial to my Ole Miss boys as I project Elijah Moore being a 2nd round pick, but Yeboah is a diamond in the rough.  Yeboah is a huge specimen of a TE at 6’3” and 247lbs., and he reminds me of Gronk.  He is raw and needs professional-level coaching to trim that size to have better route running, acceleration, and speed, but he is already an elite blocker and can separate himself from defenders with ease.  Under Lane Kiffin at Ole Miss in 2020, he averaged 20 yards per catch and over 70 yards a game.  With the big TE names like Pitts, Jordan, and Freiermuth, Yeboah might slip to the 4^th round, but he is going to be a TE name that will be in the NFL for years to come.  I see him fitting best as a Steeler, Seahawk, or Panther. 

5. Davis Mills QB, Stanford.  With all the hype surrounding the Top 5 QB in this year’s draft, we are not hearing much about those 5^th or 6^th round picks that are not day one starters but QBs with the potential to learn and conquer.  Mills is one of those young men.  He is very smart with his decisions, timing, and game management but lacks mobility which is what the NFL craves these days in QBs.  Mills is a pocket passer who needs the room to set up and throw, but when he is given that time, his deep ball accuracy is on target.  He needs to be groomed by a veteran like Rodgers, Stafford, Wilson, Cousins, or Ryan.  Mills needs to work on his footwork out of the pocket, but he is a leader and can be a starter in this league within two years barring the right team.

The post 2021 NFL Draft Sleepers appeared first on Pro Football Mania.

By: Courtney Burrows

The New Orleans Saints are still reeling from the news of Drew Brees’s retirement.  Yes, everyone knew it was coming, but that doesn’t change that fact that it is a tough pill to swallow.  The show must go on in New Orleans, and that started with free agency re-signing Winston at QB, James Hurst as a fill-in offensive lineman, and PJ Williams at safety.  There are glaring other holes to fill like Edge, CB, LB, as Kwon Alexander was released and TE since Jared Cook left (even though the Saints drafted TE Adam Trautman 3^rd round in 2020).  One of the most needed draft positions is a strong slot WR complement to Michael Thomas, even though Emmanuel Sanders was released, he wasn’t what the Saints needed so that was an easy decision.  The 2021 Draft is less than 40 days away, and the Saints need to make big moves early.  There is still a high possibility that the Saints trade up for their future QB, but these picks will be made where they currently stand with no trades.  Here is a look at potential picks for each round.

Round One, Pick 28- Rondale Moore WR, Purdue.  Moore is a top slot receiver in the draft, and the Saints need one to complement Thomas.  His toughness and speed in the slot make him a perfect fit.  Moore is an incredible deep threat with explosiveness and vertical leap allowing him to come up with the ball and propel past defenders.  He finished his career at Purdue with 1788 receptions for 1,915 yards.  If he is still on the board, the Saints can’t turn his talent down. 

Round Two, Pick 60- Eric Stokes CB, Georgia.  The Saints need a real #2 CB since releasing veteran Jenkins.   Stokes is a 2^nd round pick having him ranked as the 6^th  to 8^th  best CB in the draft behind his teammate Tyson Campbell.  Stokes ability to break up passes and disrupt receivers’ routes in zone coverage elevate him despite his size.  Stokes will make an impression from day one on any defense, why not the Saints where they desperately need the help.

Round Three, Pick 98-Pete Werner LB, Ohio State- Werner is a stout run defender whose instincts and quick reads of the offensive action help him locate the ball and tackle the runner.  He is underrated and will be available in the third round.  Werner is fast and athletic for his size and has large hands that break up passes and get in the faces of offensive players makes him a great fit that defensive line coach Ryan Nielson can coach up and mold into exactly what the Saints defense needs.

Round Three, Pick 105-Payton Turner DE, Houston- Turner is a versatile defensive player who is quick off the edge and solid in size and power.  Though he has quick bursts and acceleration, his stamina of overall speed is lacking in comparison of other DE, but that is something a good coach helps to fix.  Turner is smart and uses his mindset to know what offenses are thinking and has the flexibility and agility to switch gears mid-run.  He is a steal!

Round Four, Pick 133-Tony Poljan TE, Virginia- Jared Cook was released and Taysom Hill is no longer designated as a TE/QB, so the need is there.  Poljan reminds me of Hill since he played his first two collegiate years as QB, and we know how much the Saints have utilized Hill’s multi-tasking talent.  He is a physical pass protector pushing defenders away from the pocket.  Poljan has a huge wingspan and height that elevates him over defenders to be the first to the ball.  He is a great late-round pick that could translate into a TE1 in the coming years for the Saints. 

Round Six, Pick 218-Larry Rountree RB, Missouri- Granted the Saints have one of the best RB in the league with Kamara, but who better to learn from either.  Rountree is an undervalued RB whose quick feet let him weave in and out of holes and defenders.  His career stats include 40 touchdowns and 3,720 yards with an average of five yards per carry.  He is raw and needs grooming especially as a three-down and receiving back, but again learning from Kamara will be crucial to his future in the NFL. 

Round Seven, Pick 229-Dan Moore Jr. OT, Texas A&M-As an Aggie, Moore playing left tackle helped QB Kellen Mond complete 63.3% of his passes and throw for 2,282 yards.  Moore’s large size is balanced by his steady feet and frame, and though he does not have the quickness off the line, he does not quit on plays and charges until the whistle is blown.  That determination is something that can’t be taught.  Moore should spend at least a season on a practice squad to develop more refined pass protection and blocking, but he worth the gamble in the 7^th.

Round Seven, Pick 225-Max Richardson OLB, Boston College-Richardson returned for his 2020 season at BC and became an immediate leader on the field and in the locker room.  The Saints thrive on players rich in discipline, character, and heart, just like Richardson.  He finishes his collegiate career with 315 total tackles.    Richardson has the ability to read plays and zone coverage well and established himself as a blitzing menace in college.  He has had some knee issues, which is why he might fall to the 7^th, but the Saints will be lucky to snag him. 

What an exciting draft this is set to be, and if the Saints make wise moves to upgrade their roster to help return to NFC Glory without Brees, then they will continue to battle for one of the top spots in the league. I personally am excited to see who they grab, but maybe Coach Payton and GM Loomis will read my post and agree. I truly believe that they will trade up and grab Mac Jones or Trey Lance as the heir to the throne in NOLA. I can’t wait to see how it all unfolds Thursday, April 29th.

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