NFL Mock Draft 2016: The New Orleans Saints Select Sheldon Rankins

Sheldon Rankins, DT, Louisville

When I made the pick for the Saints in our SB Nation Blogger's Mock Draft, I selected Alabama's A'Shawn Robinson. He's a beautifully sculpted, every-down linemen who can play anywhere on the line in any scheme and is a leader in the locker room. That versatility is perfect for the Saints defense, who mix it up regularly between a 3-4 and a 4-3 front. What's not to like?

So why then didn't I go with Robinson again here in our community mock draft? Quite simply: so I could cover my ass. I'm diversifying my portfolio, if you will. In the event the Saints draft either Rankins or Robinson I can say, "Hey, I knew it! I picked this guy in that mock draft!" It's a genius move on my part to be quite honest.

But seriously, Rankins is an equally smart pick here, especially after watching him excel during the Senior Bowl. He's versatile in his own right and can play five-technique or three-technique. Rankins doesn't have the same size, but like Robinson he both excels in stopping the run and needs work in the pass rushing department. This is all according to the scouting reports, of course, because I've never watched him play.

Here's a little highlight video for our more visual non-readers:

***

Thanks to all the CSC members who participated in this year's community mock draft. Without your help, none of this would be possible.

Below are the complete results from our community mock draft.

Catch up with all of the mock draft selections in our 2016 CSC Community Mock Draft Hub.