2017 NFL Mock Draft, Week 12: Watson, Kizer loom

The New Orleans Saints still boast one of the better offenses in the league, as quarterback Drew Brees can still sling it with the best of them. However, their bugaboo this season has been their defense, as opponents have been able to go up and down the field on them with ease at times. They need some fresh, young talent injected into the unit, and Derek Barnett certainly fits the bill.

Barnett is one of the more explosive players in this draft, and has seen his stock rise this season. Playing for the Tennessee Volunteers, Barnett usually draws some double-teams, but he has the size and speed to make blockers disappear. Some believe he is the fastest defensive end off of the ball in this draft, and he would fit right into the culture of the Saints organization.

There may not be many years left in Brees’ arm, and they still have some very solid weapons on their offense. The issue has been not being able to stop teams once they have a need, and adding a pass rusher like Barnett would instantly upgrade them on the defensive line. The Saints are not far away from being a contender once again in the NFC, but they have to upgrade the defense this offseason.