The New Orleans Saints continued to build through the lines in the third round of the NFL draft, landing Texas DT Vernon Broughton II at No. 71.
The pick was the Saints' third total, but the second Longhorn along with OT Kelvin Banks at No. 9 overall. The Saints also landed Louisville QB Tyler Shough at No. 40.
"Honestly, I just feel like I’m scratching the surface, first 4 years playing and also starting," Broughton told WWL. "I feel like my ceiling is very high."
Hear an exclusive interview with Saints rookie Vernon Broughton II in the player above. Can't see the embed? Click here.
Broughton, a native of Houston, saw limited action early in his career at Texas, but broke out as a senior in 2024. IN his career he played in 55 games, starting 16, with 69 tackles, 10.5 TFLs and 4 sacks.
The pick reunites Broughton with new Saints defensive line coach Bo Davis, who coached the Texas defensive line from 2021-'23 before spending a year at LSU. It was even Davis who broke the news to his former player that he'd be drafted to the Saints, a role typically reserved for the executive staff.
"I love that man. ... He treated us like family," Broughton said.
At 6-5, 311 pounds Broughton has the ideal size to fit into Brandon Staley's new defensive scheme, joining a group anchored by former first round pick Bryan Bresee, along with veterans Davon Godchaux, Nathan Shepherd and Khalen Saunders.
New Orleans has one more pick on Day 2 at No. 93 overall.