NFC/AFC South Draft Grades

*Posted on www.newsportswriters.com on 5/11/2006

NFC South

New Orleans Saints

Best Value Pick: Reggie Bush, RB, USC
Acquiring the best player in the draft with the second pick obvious provides the best value in their draft. The worth that the excitement on and off the field that this versatile back will provide this struggling organization is priceless. He will make an immediate impact in the offense and in special teams and if effective could even add years to franchise back Deuce McAllister’s career. 

Worst Value Pick: Roman Harper, S, Alabama
This pick was a monster reach and a huge surprise for me, especially with the players that were available at this point in the draft at other higher need positions on the roster. Harper has little to no upside and is undersized and lacks athletic ability. With six safeties already on the roster, by selecting Harper it’s clear that they have plans to make other moves at the position in the off season which may include the trading of starting free safety Dwight Smith and the releasing of the aging starter at strong safety, Jay Bellamy. My hope is that neither ends up happening. 

Sleeper Pick: Mike Hass, WR, Oregon State
Great selection here by the Saints, acquiring this tough, savvy, intelligent receiver who won the Biletnikoff award in his senior season with 90 catches, 1532 yards and 6 touchdowns. He lacks the ideal size of a NFL receiver (6’1” 208), but has excellent route running skills and could compete for the fourth and even third receiving spot in his rookie season.