Saints Need to Look at Louisiana Talent in the Draft

More DT’s Are OK

Oct 30, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Rice Owls quarterback Driphus Jackson (6) is sacked by Louisiana Tech Bulldogs defensive tackle Vernon Butler (9) in the first quarter at Rice Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports

Back on the subject of defensive tackle, it would benefit the Saints to add some depth to this area considering it’s unclear if they’ll bring Kevin Williams back for a second season.

Fellow defensive tackles John Jenkins and Tyeler Davison are the next players up if they don’t, but Jenkins looks to be stuck in neutral sometimes while Davison appeared to be show some potential even as a rookie.

Even if the Saints retain Williams or select a defensive tackle in the first round, Louisiana Tech’s Vernon Butler would be a good selection in the second to third round range.

Butler was getting some attention during the Senior Bowl after measuring in at 6-3, 325 pounds and moving with the burst and quickness of a defensive end.

Sep 19, 2015; Manhattan, KS, USA; Louisiana Tech Bulldogs defensive lineman Vernon Butler (9) during the first half of a game vs. the Louisiana-Lafayette Ragin’ Cajuns at Cajun Field. Mandatory Credit: Crystal LoGiudice-USA TODAY Sports

Versatility is another positive for him since during his time at Louisiana Tech he played some at each position along the defensive line, but mainly as a 3-technique.

As our editor Barry Hirstius mentioned in a recent profile of Butler, he could be a “value” pick for the Saints if they do indeed take a shot at him.

Also a plus for Butler, with the “team first” culture New Orleans is building, is that he is know for having a positive disposition and in an article for The Advocate said that whenever a teammate is having a bad time he looks to try and lift their spirits to bring them up.

Next: Corner Stone