With each pick of the FanHouse Mock Draft, we get into the head of an NFL general manager and let you know you will pick and why. The Saints really, really need a cornerback who can at least start his career in nickel packages, but with their two top options in Chris Houston and Darrelle Revis gone, they won't reach (or "manufacture" in Sean Payton's words) for a corner. From there, the team can go basically anywhere.
Mickey Loomis has always been a "best player available" sort-of guy, so the team won't dig low on their board just because cornerback is their greatest need. With Houston and Revis gone, the team turns toward defensive tackle, their second-greatest need. Harrell fits at this spot and gives the Saints a fresh body for the team's defensive line rotation. Last year the team made strides at defensive tackle. Hollis Thomas, the big addition, is playing year-to-year, 306 lbs. and asthmatic, and seemed to wear down as last season progressed. The other starter, Brian Young, is a 3-tech tackle whose high motor only occasionally prevents him from being swallowed by blocks. They'll each be 30+ by the time the season starts.
Oh, also: the Saints still finished 23rd in rushing defense last year.
Harrell's stock is rising as teams are growing more comfortable with the fact that he's fully recovered from a ruptured biceps tendon. His play against the run will benefit the rush defense, and his ability to disrupt in the backfield fits in perfectly with the Saints' aggressive blitz. His toughness (he delayed surgery on that injury for a week to help Tennessee in an important game) fits in with the team's personality.
Payton's theory about drafting offensive linemen every year might lead them to draft Joe Staley to play right tackle or Justin Blalock at left guard. They could also take Lawrence Timmons to play weakside linebacker or Greg Olsen, which is less likely after signing Eric Johnson. But Harrell seems like the right choice, at 27th he's not a reach and he fills a position of need.
The Skinny:
Team Needs: CB, DT, TE, WR, LB
The Pick: Justin Harrell, DT, Tennessee
Also Considered: Greg Olsen, TE, Miami; Marcus McCauley, CB, Fresno State; Lawrence Timmons, LB, Florida State; Joe Staley, OT, Central Michigan; Justin Blalock, OG, Texas
Previous Picks:
No. 1 Raiders: JaMarcus Russell, QB, LSU
No. 2 Lions: Calvin Johnson, WR, Georgia Tech
No. 3 Browns: Joe Thomas, T, Wisconsin
No. 4 Bucs: Gaines Adams, DE, Clemson
No. 5 Cardinals: Adrian Peterson, RB, Oklahoma
See all mock draft picks so far
Next Pick: No. 28, New England Patriots
Add your comments