New Orleans Saints need to fix tight end problem late in 2018 NFL Draft
Despite signing Benjamin Watson, the New Orleans Saints still have a question mark at tight end. In 2018, they need to fix it late in the NFL Draft.
The 2018 NFL Draft is creeping closer and closer. After last year’s fabulous drafting, it’s hard to ignore the New Orleans Saints. Their 2017 draft class was easily one of the best of the season and arguably ever. One position is still plaguing the team this draft: tight-end.
While a lot of us were hoping for a Jimmy Graham reunion, Green Bay shut that down. Then the team turned to another former player, Benjamin Watson. Signing him to a one-year deal, the team has security for now.
It doesn’t secure them for long, though. Watson is 37 years old, practically ancient in football years so he doesn’t have much time left. He’ll play maybe another season or two before he retires. Some may have shut the door on the team selecting a tight-end but the 2018 draft is a perfect time.
The Saints shouldn’t try to go for a first or second round pick at tight end. Leave Hayden Hurst and Mike Gesicki to another team. The team isn’t starving at tight-end, but they need someone for the future. Right now, they need someone who is there to learn and eventually, take over.
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They need their first and second round picks to target other needs, but especially a solid pass rusher. In the later rounds is where the team has shined anyway. They found some hidden gems including Alvin Kamara and this draft, they need to do the same.
The strategy is simple, but executing it is the tough part. They need someone who will not only learn but also fit into their offense. One option not many have talked about is Tyler Conklin out of Central Michigan.
Conklin is not projected to be an early draft pick, making him a great option for the Saints. He is a former basketball player turned tight-end. Conklin made a splash at Central Michigan in 2016 but still has some struggles. Surprisingly, he could end up being a great fit for the Saints because of his struggles.
If the Saints draft him in a later round, it’s a win-win situation. The Saints have an option at TE with Watson as a mentor. As for Conklin, he has a chance to prove himself and the Saints don’t have to worry as much about tight-end.
Next: 2018 NFL Mock Draft: Full 7-round projection
Even if the Saints don’t draft Conklin, there are a lot of good tight end options out there. After last year’s draft, there’s no telling what surprises the Saints have up their sleeve. Regardless, drafting a late-round tight-end will only help the team in the future.