The Saints have taken a third player in the 5th round, again a defensive player. Damian Swann in the second corner in the draft taken by the Saints. That position now feels very deep and will have a lot of competition. By the number of guys you have to sense the battle will be heated. Stanley Jean-Baptiste is really going to have to improve for any shot of making the team. Swann of course will have to really impress to make this team, too. Interesting that the Saints felt the need to give up their 6th and a 2016 6th to go get him.
Here’s his write up on NFL.com:
STRENGTHS
Natural corner who has played and can play all over field. Played in the box in dime package and used as deep safety on a few snaps. Good length pressing and crowding receivers to the sideline. At his best as bump-and-run corner playing inside leverage. Thin but physical in run support. Covered big receivers and tight ends from the slot. Blitzes like a heat-seeking missile.
WEAKNESSES
Gives away a tremendous cushion in thirds coverage. Has to see it to break on it. Instincts lacking in zone coverage and takes too long to close out receivers. Feet uncooperative at times. Has issues staying wired to receivers making inside releases. Plays at one speed and lacks long speed to recover. Not in position to make interceptions. Had just five interceptions in three years as a starter.
BOTTOM LINE
Gangly cornerback with spindly legs but a willingness to play physically and with great energy and effort. Swann doesn’t play tightly enough in coverage or make enough plays on the ball to be a starting cornerback and doesn’t have the size to transition to safety full time, but he’s versatile and highly competitive and has a legitimate shot to make a team.
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