New Orleans Saints draft picks 2019: Erik McCoy taken at 48th overall

The New Orleans Saints have entered the 2019 NFL draft, as they made their first selection on Friday evening. They traded up with the Miami Dolphins to do so, gaining pick No. 48 and selecting Texas A&M center Erik McCoy.

NFL.com Draft Profile

Teams typically hunt for centers with the traits to withstand power or athleticism depending on their divisional competition. McCoy comes gift-wrapped in a thick, strong frame and proved he could hold up to both power (Dexter Lawrence) and athleticism (Quinnen Williams). He has some limitations in space, but he possesses more than enough body control and agility to compete on work-ups and cut-off blocks. With his ability match against base and sub-packages, McCoy could carry Day 2 draft value as a future starter.

Trade Details

Dolphins trade: Picks 48, 116

Saints trade: Picks 62, 202, and a 2020 second round pick

SB Nation’s Dan Kadar had ranked as his 44th best prospect on his Top 200 board.

Saints Top Remaining Needs

• Offensive Line
• Wide Receiver
• Defensive Line
• Defensive Back
• Linebacker

2019 NFL Draft Schedule

• Friday, April 26 – 6:00 p.m. CT (Round 2 – 7 Minutes, Round 3 – 5 Minutes Per Pick)
• Saturday, April 27 – 11:00 a.m. CT (Rounds 4-6 – 5 Minutes Per Pick, Round 7 - 4 Minutes Per Pick)

Remaining Draft Picks

• 4th Round: 116th Overall
• 5th Round: 168th Overall
• 6th Round: 177th Overall (via New York Jets)
• 7th Round: 231st Overall (via Cleveland)
• 7th Round: 244th Overall

More Action

• Potential Day 2 draft targets for the Saints
• Dan Kadar’s best players available after Round 1