The Saints haven’t drafted very many LSU players since Sean Payton took over as head coach of the franchise in 2006.
And while several former Tigers have eventually worn a Saints uniform, only two, defensive tackle Al Woods and offensive lineman Will Clapp, were selected by the Saints in the NFL Draft.
Likely due to those numbers, fans have speculated on social media and other avenues that New Orleans doesn’t seem to like LSU players.
Over the years, members of the Saints front office and head coach Sean Payton have said their draft philosophy is more about the vision and fit than where a player played in college.
But with another talented draft class coming out of LSU, including several players at positions of need for the Saints, there’s a chance the New Orleans could select its third Tiger under Sean Payton in the 2021 NFL Draft.
Here’s five LSU prospects that fit best with the Saints:
Terrace Marshall Jr., WR
Marshall posted a 4.38 in the 40-yard dash at LSU’s Pro Day confirming that the 6-foot-3, 200-pound receiver is an explosive playmaker. Marshall Jr. played in only seven games during the 2020 season but still caught 48 passes fro 731 yards and 10 touchdowns.
Why he fits: New Orleans released Emmanuel Sanders, who’s since signed with the Buffalo Bills, after he led Saints receivers in receptions and yards in 2020. While the franchise has some promising young talent behind top pass catcher Michael Thomas, adding a receiver of Marshall’s calibre could be a big boost to an offense looking to breaking a new starting quarterback. Marshall has lined up both outside and in the slot and has proven to be able to beat defenses deep and pick up yards after the catch. That versatility opposite of Thomas who continues to draw major attention from opposing could mean big production from Marshall and the Saints offense.
How realistic is it: Very. The Saints pick at No. 28 in this year’s draft. If it weren’t for the depth at receiver in the 2021 class Marshall likely wouldn’t be available that late in the draft. But with top prospects like Ja’Marr Chase, Jaylen Waddle and Devonta Smith projected ahead of the former Parkway star there’s a chance the Saints could land the speedy receiver without much maneuvering.
Jabril Cox, LB
The 6-foot-3, 233-pound linebacker posted impressive numbers at North Dakota State and did the same in his first season at LSU. In 10 games in 2020, he intercepted three passes and broke up five tallying 58 tackles.
Why he fits: Both Kwon Alexander and Alex Anzalone, who saw the majority of snaps top Saints linebacker Demario Davis in 2020 are no longer with the team. Alexander was released and is recovering from an achilles injury and Anzalone signed with the Detroit Lions. Cox has demonstrated an elite ability in coverage that would make him a valuable piece in Dennis Allen’s defense.
How realistic is it: Very. The Saints are looking at linebackers in this class as they’ve been in contact with some of the top prospects in this class. Cox is among the top linebacker prospects and should be available when the Saints pick in the first round. An injury kept him from participating in LSU’s Pro Day which could allow him to be available in the second round as well.
Tyler Shelvin, DT
Shelvin opted out of the 2020 season after playing a key role in the Tigers' 2019 National Championship run. The run stopping defensive tackle came in at a good weight at his pro day and said he’s worked on his pass rushing in his time away from college football.
Why he fits: The 6-foot-3, 346-pound defensive tackle has demonstrated his ability to clog the middle. The Saints will be looking for depth at that very position after losing Sheldon Rankins to the New York Jets in free agency and trading Malcom Brown to the Jaguars. Shelvin’s game could fit nicely in New Orleans’ defensive front which has been one of the NFL’s best over the past few seasons.
How realistic is it: Somewhat. Shelvin said he’s been in contact with the Saints and could be available when the pick in the first round depending on how the draft plays out. New Orleans however might be reluctant to use its top pick in this year’s draft on a defensive lineman as its young players at the position like Shy Tuttle and Malcolm Roach have performed well when given the oppurtunity.
Racey McMath, WR
The 6-foot-3, 224-pound, former Karr standout ran a 4.34 40-yard dash at LSU’s Pro Day posting similar times to expected first-round picks Chase and Marshall. He saw the most action oof his LSU career at receiver this past season catching 14 passes for 195 yards and a touchdown in the six games he was able to play.
Why he fits: McMath was a special teams star fro the Tigers and the Saints have shown that they value players that can contribute in the kicking game. New Orleans also has an opening in its kick coverage units as core special teamer Justin Hardee signed with the Jets.
How realistic is it: Very. Despite not having the production of some of the top receivers in the 2021 class, McMath’s special teams play and measurables make him likely to hear his name called in the this year’s draft. The Saints own a few late round picks and have shown the willingness to invest in a player that contributes in the kicking game.
Zach Von Rosenberg, P
Von Rosenberg spent the past four season’s as LSU’s punter and earned All-SEC honors twice during his career. He averaged 44 yards per punt, ranking third in school history, during his career in Baton Rouge.
Why he fits: The Saints parted ways with long time punter Thomas Morstead, who’s been with the franchise since 2009, and will be looking for a new starter. Von Rosenberg, a Louisiana native, has a strong and accurate leg and, while at LSU, demonstrated leadership during his career. His combination of skill and maturity, not to mention his fan-friendly personality could make him a strong candidate to replace Morstead.
How realistic is it: Somewhat. The Saints sign punter Blake Gillikin as an undrafted free agent last season making him a front runner for the starting position but the Saints have shown they’re willing to bring in competition even for established starters. It wouldn’t be surprising for New Orleans to bring in another punter to compete for that role and Von Rosenberg could be a candidate.
