NFL
HomeScoresDraftRumorsFantasyB/R 99: Top QBs of All Time
Featured Video
EPIC NFL Thanksgiving Slate 🙌
Jan 2, 2017; Arlington, TX, USA; Wisconsin Badgers offensive lineman Ryan Ramczyk (65) blocks Western Michigan Broncos defensive end Keion Adams (1) in the third quarter at AT&T Stadium. The Badgers won 24-16. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 2, 2017; Arlington, TX, USA; Wisconsin Badgers offensive lineman Ryan Ramczyk (65) blocks Western Michigan Broncos defensive end Keion Adams (1) in the third quarter at AT&T Stadium. The Badgers won 24-16. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY SportsTim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

Ryan Ramczyk to Saints: Twitter Reacts as OT Is Selected in 2017 NFL Draft

Rob GoldbergApr 27, 2017

The New Orleans Saints upgraded their offensive line by selecting Wisconsin tackle Ryan Ramczyk with the No. 32 pick of the 2017 NFL draft.

Ramczyk virtually came out of nowhere this past college football season to become one of the top linemen in the country.

TOP NEWS

Colts Jaguars Football
Rams Seahawks Football

The 6'6", 310-pound player began his career at Division III UW-Stevens Point, playing for two years before transferring to Wisconsin. After sitting out the next season, he started the first game in 2016 and became a dominant force for the Badgers.

He was a unanimous All-American at left tackle and, according to Pro Football Focus, was the top run-blocker in the country:

Gil Brandt of NFL.com doesn't believe the lack of high-level competition should hurt him:

Ramczyk was forced to undergo hip surgery after the season but noted in March that he was ahead of schedule in his recovery, per Alex Marvez of Sirius XM. He was also confident in his health at the NFL Scouting Combine, via NFL CFB:

Assuming his medicals clear, the Saints will get a high-quality tackle who can make an immediate impact while also having plenty of room to grow. Considering his lack of experience, his technique is sure to improve with time.

In a draft class with fewer top offensive line prospects than usual, Ramczyk might have been the best available, and he should be a useful part of the offense going forward.

The Saints have Drew Brees, who turned 38 in January, at quarterback. His age will inevitably lead to concerns about durability, though he's only missed two games in 11 seasons with New Orleans. 

Sam Monson of Pro Football Focus ranked the Saints' offensive line as the NFL's 12th-best in 2016, despite left tackle Terron Armstead being limited to seven games. 

Ramczyk gives Saints head coach Sean Payton more depth on the offensive line and a potential star at tackle with the proper development. The Saints need to start playing more physical if they want to improve on three straight years with a 7-9 record. 

EPIC NFL Thanksgiving Slate 🙌

TOP NEWS

Colts Jaguars Football
Rams Seahawks Football
Mississippi Football
Packers Bears Football

TRENDING ON B/R