Is It A Certainty The Saints Go Wide Receiver In The First Round?

2 min read
Is It A Certainty The Saints Go Wide Receiver In The First Round?

Is It A Certainty The Saints Go Wide Receiver In The First Round?

It sure would be fun for New Orleans.

Is It A Certainty The Saints Go Wide Receiver In The First Round?

It sure would be fun for New Orleans.

The NFL Draft is just two weeks away, and the rumor mill is in overdrive. For the New Orleans Saints, one of the most tantalizing scenarios involves adding a new weapon to their offense. With the 8th overall pick, could they really pass on giving quarterback Tyler Shough another dynamic target?

It's a strategy that makes a lot of sense. The Saints' offense showed flashes last season, and pairing Chris Olave with another elite receiver would give new offensive coordinator Kellen Moore a formidable arsenal. The name generating the most buzz is Ohio State's Carnell Tate. Imagine the chemistry of two Buckeye alums, Olave and Tate, stretching defenses for the Saints. It's a fun proposition for fans and a nightmare for opposing defensive coordinators.

But is it a sure thing? According to ESPN's Katherine Terrell, the chances sit around 40%. While wide receiver is a significant need, the Saints have positioned themselves to be flexible. After signing several offensive free agents, they could pivot to address a pass rusher or another defensive position with that valuable first pick.

The plot thickens when considering other options. If the Saints don't go receiver at No. 8, they could target one later. Second-year QB Tyler Shough has reportedly advocated for his former Louisville teammate, Chris Bell, who has seen his stock rise after an impressive pro day. Could General Manager Mickey Loomis double-dip, grabbing both Tate and Bell? It would be an electrifying move, but it would require using consecutive picks and potentially leaving other needs, like the defensive line, for later.

Insight from ESPN's Justin Reid suggests the Saints are keeping their options open, leaning towards the "best player available" philosophy. However, the report indicates that if Carnell Tate is on the board at No. 8, the Saints would likely pounce, quickly adding him to the roster.

So, while it's not a certainty, the dream of a supercharged Saints receiving corps is very much alive. Whether it's Tate, another prospect, or a strategic pivot, New Orleans is in a prime position to make a franchise-altering choice. The excitement in the Big Easy is building, and the draft can't come soon enough.

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