The
surprising decision by the Houston Texans to bypass Reggie Bush 18-hours before
the draft started dramatically changed the plans of New Orleans. Expect Payton to develop a package
of plays especially for the dynamic Bush, who’ll nicely compliment Duece McCallister.
Both Roman Harper and Jahri Evans went earlier than we projected. Each has
starting potential on the Saints roster yet neither stands out in any single
aspect. Mike Hass was terrific value in round six and should flourish as the
teams third or fourth wide out. Both Josh Lay and Zach Strief have starting
potential and were good value in the late rounds.
In swapping picks with the Cleveland Browns during round two the Saints
picked up center Jeff Faine. While Faine is not the same caliber of Charles
Lebentley, an interior lineman lost in free agency, he was worth the downward
move of nine slots in the second frame. The Saints made another move for a veteran,
again moving down. This time the team received defensive tackle Hollis Thomas
for sliding down nine slots in round four. Again, a solid decision.