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A few days ago the good folks over at SBNation.com released their mock draft and pegged the Saints with taking running back Mark Ingram. They've done some re-calculating since then and have now released the latest version of their 2011 NFL Mock Draft. This time, they think the Saints are going with defensive tackle Stephen Paea with their first round selection:
24. New Orleans Saints: Stephen Paea, DT, Oregon State. After the Saints reached agreement on a highly reasonable four-year deal with Pierre Thomas last week, it seems unlikely that they'll target running back here. Paea would upgrade over Remi Ayodele, and is a perfect two-way player for Gregg Williams' defense.
Their reasoning makes sense but what about the signing of Shaun Rogers? Shouldn't that also be taken into account now? I don't mind SB Nation's selection and I certainly agree the Saints need help on the defensive line but personally, I would rather the Saints address the defensive end or outside linebacker position first.
Was Paea simply the best player available and too good for the Saints to pass up? He was already drafted by the Chiefs at 21st overall in the first version of their mock draft. It should also be mentioned that Mark Ingram, Allen Bailey and Justin Houston were still on the board when the Saints were ready to pick in this mock draft.
What do you guys think?