2011 NFL Draft Results: Is New Orleans Saints' First Round Enough for Top Grade?
By on May 2, 2011
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2011 NFL Draft Grades: Saints go big with two first-round selections:
Grade: A-
The New Orleans Saints' first-round intentions were pretty clear as the 2011 NFL Draft approached. They wanted a defensive end with the 24th overall pick. What we didn't know was how much they wanted Cameron Jordan.
The Washington Post reports that Jordan and fellow first-rounder Mark Ingram were among the team's top four targets.
It's no surprise that the Saints wanted Jordan so badly considering most prognostications expected Jordan to be gone well before the Saints picked, maybe by 10 picks. But Jordan kept sliding past potential suitors until he fell in New Orleans lap.
They had to work a little harder to get Ingram. The running back also went several picks past expectation. As he slid, the Saints worked out a deal with the Patriots to get the 28th overall picks in exchange for New Orleans' 2012 first-round pick and 2011 second-round pick.
Jordan was a clear steal. Ingram would have been if it didn't cost two picks to acquire. He still represents great value and add stability to a backfield that severely lacked it in 2010.
In the third round, New Orleans snagged linebacker Martez Wilson and corner Johnny Patrick. Both were solid, valuable picks. However, the team finished the draft never addressing its need at safety. Only Malcolm Jenkins is under contract.
The Saints did very well in getting players for value but could have done better in addressing team needs.
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