New Orleans Saints: Eli Apple trade should be a win

The New Orleans Saints trading for Eli Apple is a risky move, but one that could pay off if the cornerback is able to embrace his role on the Saints.

The Dallas Cowboys started off this year’s trading season with a bang. A day later, the New York Giants dealt a player also. The Giants traded cornerback Eli Apple to the New Orleans Saints. In exchange, they received two drafts picks, a fourth- and seventh-round pick. Of the two teams, the New Orleans Saints have the better chance of winning this trade.

Before we get into that, it’s important to note when the Giants drafted Apple. He was drafted in 2016 in the first round with the 10th overall pick. At age 21, Apple was a risk, but it ultimately paid off for the Giants at first. During his first two seasons, he finished with 99 combined tackles, a forced fumble and an interception.

However, the cracks started to form after Apple couldn’t get along with a coach and teammate. He also dealt with injuries which plagued him on the field. Even though he was promised a fresh start in New York, the damage was already done. There was no way to win anyone’s good graces in the locker room.

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Sending him to New Orleans is truly a clean slate for Apple. He’ll have a chance to be mentored by some of the greatest defensive players in the game. With Cameron Jordan at the helm, it’s a chance for Apple to truly hone his craft and learn from some of the best. The Giants had a few impact players, but all failed to help take Apple to the next level.

Another win for New Orleans is Apple’s age. He’s still a young player and the team has had success with younger players. Most of their team is full of young guys and they’re able to learn from each other. Even though Apple is in his third season, he’s failed to truly break out and he has another chance now.

The main reason the Saints will win this trade is that they have all the pieces around Apple. Almost all of the players have been with the Saints for a year or more so he’ll have a chance to learn the ropes. It might take some adjusting but having some of his former teammates there is a good sign. He might not be ready to go just yet but the Saints can wait it out, unlike the Giants.

Cornerback has been their biggest weakness this season so far and adding another could be exactly what they need. The Saints have a chance to mold Apple into the player they need for the latter half of the season. Even if the Giants weren’t tanking, Apple wouldn’t have lasted. It’s a good thing the Saints got him now. Depending on how he adjusts, it might end up being a steal. Only time will tell.

There’s always a risk involved but the reward could be even sweeter. Between the two teams, the New Orleans Saints have a better chance at winning the trade than the Giants.