Another shocking draft choice from the New Orleans Saints this year as they select offensive tackle Charles Brown from - surprise, surprise - USC. The Saints have yet to address their need at linebacker or on the defensive line in this years draft.
Not to be confused with Charles Brown the musician and singer of my favorite Christmas song, however, the left tackle was probably the best value with the 64th pick and highest rated player left on the board. And remember, Drew Brees is the most important piece of this puzzle. Drafting Brown is a statement that says the Saints are serious about making sure Drew's protected. It's also says they may not be so confident in Jammal Brown and Jermon Bushrod.
This has to be a sure sign that the Saints are ready to part ways with Pro-Bowl left tackle Jammal Brown. We can't have two left tackles named Brown. It'll just get too confusing.
What do you guys think about this pick? And when will the Saints get help on the defensive line or at linebacker!?!?!?
Mocking the Draft's scouting report:
Final word: Brown really burst onto the scouting scene when he shut down Penn State's Aaron Maybin in the 2009 Rose Bowl. A converted tight end, Brown is loaded with upside. He has as much potential as any lineman in this year's draft.
To realize it, however, Brown needs to get much stronger and more aggressive in the run game. His pass protection is ready for the NFL, but his run blocking is not.
From Draft Countdown:
Strengths:
Great height --- Really long arms --- Has a frame that can accommodate more weight --- Excellent athlete --- Quick and agile --- Nimble feet --- A natural knee bender --- Slides well laterally and can mirror --- Excels in pass pro --- Terrific range to pull and get to the second level --- Gives good effort --- Decent instincts and awareness --- Considerable upside.
Weaknesses:
Raw as a technician --- Needs to continue bulking up --- Not real tough or physical --- Isn't very strong --- Questionable balance --- Doesn't always use proper leverage --- Has trouble sustaining blocks --- Does not protect the edge as well as he should --- Isn't stout at the point of attack --- Will not get a huge push in the run game --- Lacks versatility.
Notes:
Was a two-year starter for the Trojans --- Named 1st Team All-Pac-10 in 2009 --- Began his college career as a 250 pound tight end but eventually made the move to the offensive line halfway through his redshirt season in 2005 --- Will most likely be limited to the left side at the next level as he really doesn't have the necessary skill set to play right tackle or guard --- An impressive physical specimen with loads of potential but hasn't quite put it all together yet --- Will require some patience / development but has the talent to be a blindside protector.