The 2023 NFL Draft is just around the corner, and fans of the New Orleans Saints are eager to see what the team will do with the 29th pick. With an impressive track record of selecting top-tier talent in the first round, the Saints are poised to continue their success in this year's draft. Here's a look at what the Saints could do with the 29th pick and how it might shape their season.
First and foremost, the Saints need to address their defensive line. With the departure of several key players, including defensive tackle David Onyemata and Defensive End Marcus Davenport the team's pass rush has been weakened. One player who could fill this void is Pittsburgh defensive tackle Calijah Kancey. Kancey is a really talented player who can play both the run and the pass, and his athleticism and quickness would make him a valuable asset to the Saints' defensive scheme.
Another area of concern for the Saints is their offensive line. With offensive guard Andrus Peat future in question after the 2023 season, the team needs to start looking for a long-term solution. One player who could fit is Florida offensive guard O'Cyrus Torrence. Torrence is a powerful blocker who can dominate at the point of attack, and his quick feet and agility would make him an excellent pass protector.
The Saints also need to add some depth at wide receiver, One player who could help fill this need is Ohio State wideout Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Smith-Njigba is an all-around receiver who runs really good routes. In 2021 Smith-Njigba accounted for 95 reception 1606 yards and 9 touchdowns. His skillset would be a nightmare for any cornerback that would have the job of neutralizing him.
In addition to these specific areas of need, the Saints could also opt to select the best available player at the 29th pick. This could be a player like Iowa State Defensive End Will McDonald IV or Georgia Tight End Darnell Washington. Both players are highly rated by draft experts and could bring a much-needed boost to the Saints' defense or offense, respectively.
It is not uncommon for the Saints to make trades to move up in the draft to acquire a specific player they covet. we have seen this in years past. In 2018 the Saints made a trade with the Green Bay Packers to select defensive end Marcus Davenport. Some reports have the Saints being very high on Georgia edge rusher Nolan Smith. If the New Orleans Saints are interested in Smith and believe he will be selected before their current pick at number 29, they may explore the possibility of making a trade to move up in the draft. However, any such decision would be dependent on numerous factors, the cost of the trade, and the needs of other teams in the draft. Overall, the 29th pick in the 2023 NFL Draft presents the New Orleans Saints with a range of options. Whether they choose to address their defensive line, offensive line, receiver, or simply select the best available player, the Saints have the opportunity to add a talented young player who can help lead the team to success in the coming seasons. As always, the draft is a time of excitement and anticipation for NFL fans, and Saints fans in particular will be eagerly watching to see what their team will do on draft day.
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