Getting to Know Saints DT David Onyemata

The New Orleans Saints are taking the trenches of their defense seriously! This was made clear with the selection of Sheldon Rankins in round one and now David Onyemata in round 4. The Saints now have a player who can start right away and another who can develop at the position. One thing is for sure, they injected some quality youth at the DT position.

Fun Fact - David Onyemata has become the first Manitoba Bisons player to be chosen in the NFL Draft. He is the second Canadian player selected by the Saints in the draft. Former Saints player Akiem Hicks was the first.

Tale of the Tape: 6'4", 300 pounds

Here are his Strengths:

(NFL.com) - Big, powerful frame. Has some violence and jolt in his punch. Big hands with good arm length. Has potential to be snap­-winner at point of attack with NFL coaching. Features explosion and thrust from hips to channel his power. Good movement skills with experience inside and outside. Has ability to shuck and tackle against run and instincts should improve over time.

Here are his Weaknesses:

(NFL.com) - Tremendously raw and inexperienced. Has played the game for just four years and may not be ready to contribute on a regular basis for at least a couple of years. Pass rushes too often resort to power on power. Doesn't seem to have any plan as a rusher at this time.

Current NFL Comparison: Tony Jerod-Eddie, DL, San Francisco 49ers

Saints Roster at Defensive Tackle (according to NewOrleansSaints.com):

Nick Fairley, Johnathan Jenkins, Sheldon Rankins (R), Tyeler Davison, Kaleb Eulls, & Ashaad Mabry

David Onyemata is widely considered a raw, project player with potential to be a quality contributor. Obviously the Saints moved up to get him because they feel that he will reach his potential under their tutelage. With 6 other players on the roster at his position, Onyemata will receive the benefit of time to grow AND possibly the Sean Payton Rookie Red-shirt!

"Oh you've got a foot? Probably going to need to put you on IR." - Sean Payton