Now I realize that this is a critical position of need for the Saints but I just can't justify this high of a pick for a cornerback this year. It seems that the two up and comers that you hear the most about lately are Cromartie and McKelvin. Well, to me, these two are very suspect as far as the level of competition these two have played against in their college careers and I really don't see how either one could come in and be a starter from Day 1.
Jenkins and Talib both have character issues which we have strayed from and I'm not so sure either are worth the pick if there weren't any off the field issues.
Now, I think we can all agree that if available Dorsey or Ellis is the way to go with the #10 pick but it is a stretch to expect one to fall so far to us. I'm not in favor of moving up but wouldn't mind moving down but that is so hard to project.
So, what to do? Linebacker would seem to be the most immediate need and possibly our best chance at value @ the #10 selection. I would say WR Jackson might be an option but I just don't see Payton burning another 1st round selection at the position......though I do think Meacham has a great chance to succeed for us next season.
In browsing around draft sites only one linebacker seems to be consistently in the top 15 selections and that is Keith Rivers from USC. I think he could come in and start immediately for this team at the Mike linebacker position regardless of what happens in FA. He along with Fujita and Shanle/FA/draftee would improve the defense by adding a playmaker in the middle and replacing a completely inept Mark Simoneaux who should have never been in the starting lineup last season.
After selecting Rivers in Round 1 then I think you should still be able to select a potential nickel/starter at the cornerback position in round 2 with players such as Patrick Lee, Brandon Flowers, Antoine Cason. I do believe that in this day and age of medical technology and players ability to recover quickly that McKenzie will be back in the starting lineup opening day and between Usama Young, Jason David, Craft and draftees/possibly FA's that another starter should emerge.
Gotta say I wouldn't mind us going back to back LB'ers in the first 2 rounds if Lofton available but I would be surprised to see them do it.
Sorry to ramble but not finding much interest in this Pro Bowl and looking for other means of entertainment.