Mike Triplett issues a warning

by MtnExile on Mar 18, 2009 1:29 PM CDT

Might the Saints use their #14 pick to draft an offensive player? Might they even draft a running back? Mike Triplett of Nola.com says...yeah, they might.

The Saints have been true believers in the best-available-player theory for several years. They fill their most pressing needs in free agency so they can draft the highest-rated guy on their board in the draft. That could very well be a running back this year. ... Now the question is whether or not they'll have Moreno, specifically rated that high. I think Wells seems like a better fit since he would fill that power-runner, short-yardage void. But Moreno's fairly physical too and can run between the tackles. I wouldn't rule him out.

So...we'd all better brace ourselves for impact. After an 8-8 season in which the NFL's best offense was kept out of the playoffs by their undermanned and underplaying defense, we may use one of only four draft choices--and our highest one, at that--on an offensive skill position!

Triplett also alludes to the fact that we don't know what system Loomis and Payton use for determining draft "value." Does position enter into it? If not, how do you rationally compare a running back and a cornerback? Put it this way: what's better, a Dodge Ram 3500 Dually or a BMW M convertible? They cost about the same, so it's a matter of what you want them for. If hauling a trailer is important, go with the Dodge. If getting laid is important...well, under some circumstances, the Dodge will do that, too--but I'd go with the BMW.

The upshot is, we really have no idea what's going to happen, and neither does anyone but Sean Payton and Mickey Loomis.

This FanPost was written by a reader and member of Canal Street Chronicles. It does not necessarily reflect the views of CSC and its staff or editors.

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one guys opinion

i hope it doesnt happen but i doubt this means anything…this guy is just thinking aloud

by diehardbermysaints on Mar 18, 2009 2:07 PM CDT reply actions

Defintely a possibility

Although, since they didn’t yet sign a sure-thing free agent free safety and their main possibility in Darren Sharper is on the downside of his career, it would seem logical for them to use that 1st round pick on this position. Of course, none of us can know what Payton’s definition of “logical” is. G-Dub has said the safety is the quarterback of his defense, so he seems to need a very capable and talented guy at FS. So far, he only has Kaesviharn. The draft looks like their last available opportunity to find “the guy” to quarterback the D. I suppose they could still move McKenzie or Usama over to FS as well, but that seems less likely.

Still, I wouldn’t be surprised if Payton grabbed a RB at #14. Rookie running backs produced quite well last season and I’m sure a power runner is on Payton’s radar. He’s already said he’s “dying” to get one. I’m thinking they pick a Glenn Coffee or someone similar in the 4th round and use that 1st pick on a FS. Of course, the forecast will probably change by the time the draft gets here. A lot can and probably will happen before April 25th finally arrives.

Go Saints!!!! Deuce may be gone, but he will never be forgotten.

by David "Satch" Kelly on Mar 18, 2009 2:44 PM CDT reply actions

Big Bruiser Needed

With Darren Sharper on the payroll a big running back might be the ticket. We have two small scat back types already in Bush and Peirre so Koshaun Moreno would not be the way to go unless he’s used as trade bait. We need someone more along the lines like Wells or a P.J. Hill someone in the 230lbs. range. But that’s just my opinion.

by Lyle Lirette on Mar 21, 2009 8:08 PM CDT up reply actions