NFL Draft 2019: New Orleans Saints full mock draft
By Joe Romano
Round 6 – Pick 177
Alex Bars, G, Notre Dame
Another flyer on a player that may be a better pro than college player. Alex Bars is rehabbing a serious injury. Was it not for that injury we could be talking about a day two prospect along the offensive interior. If not injured is a day two guard. Bars has starter traits and upside at guard. A powerful body with great length, he showcases an ability to play low despite his 6-foot-5 height.
His pass sets are a work in progress but in day three, finding a player of this caliber, would be an absolute steal. If healthy right away Bars could challenge Larry Warford for playing time this upcoming season.
Round 6 – Pick 202
Sheldrick Redwine, S/CB, Miami
Having a lot of cover guys is never a problem. Sheldrick Redwine is an experience player in the secondary that brings a valuable versatile skill set to the NFL. Tasked at Miami with playing close to the box, that is where he can develop into a standout player at the next level.
Redwine’s a very athletic defensive back with the man coverage ability to run tight ends up the seam. His biggest problem right now is understanding zones and the mental side of playing defensive back. That is why he is pushed down the board. For New Orleans, he’d be an ideal third safety to play in the box.
Round 7 – Pick 231
Austin Bryant, EDGE, Clemson
The development of Marcus Davenport is crucial for this defensive front. Cameron Jordan is an elite defensive end on one side. The Saints paid a price that says they believe Davenport can turn into that. In his second year, the time is now. Trey Hendrickson is the third option and comes in on long and late downs to kick Jordan inside.
That is a solid rotational group. Adding another piece would be a good investment. Austin Bryant was part of the most talented defensive line in the country at Clemson. He’s a finesse player who can win one-on-one on occasion. With solid technique and understanding of the position, Bryant is an ideal fourth rusher to provide relief to the top of the depth chart.
Round 7 – Pick 244
Dexter Williams, RB, Notre Dame
New Orleans is a position to take a swing on a running back in the draft. A weak overall group pushes them down the board and leaves the Saints with options. Notre Dame’s Dexter Williams has as good of upside as any other back taken in the third day of the draft. Off the field issues will give teams pause but his on the field performance speaks to someone who can be a piece to a backfield rotation.
Williams is a back that can perform right away with his incredibly vision and block reading ability. Once through the hole he’s got adequate wiggle and juice to make plays at the second level though that is not his strength. New Orleans could use him as a third back with Kamara and Murray being the top two. Williams can add in some different looks on early downs.