A popular take regarding the Saints' selection of the Saints' Alontae Taylor pick at No. 49 overall was that it was a bit too early.
But a scout that sees the picture much differently is Justin Melo of The Draft Network, who scouted the Tennessee defensive back extensively and identified the Seahawks and Raiders who would've likely been close behind had the Saints gone elsewhere. Both had Taylor in for top-30 visits in the pre-draft process, and it's not exactly complicated why.
"I've been doing this for a long time. 6-foot, 199-pound defensive backs that run a 4.36 don't last very long on draft weekend," Melo said. "That's a very desired skillset that Alontae brings to the table. And NFL teams love having big, fast, long-armed corners."
Listen to the full interview below. Can't see the embed? Click here.
Melo says he viewed Taylor as likely the best defensive player on the Volunteers' roster in 2021 and that he'll compete for a starting role down the road. Until then, he'll be an elite contributor on special teams.
Additionally, Melo sat with Taylor for an expansive interview in the pre-draft process. Check that out here.
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