This rather feels like trying to discount evidence that doesn't support a particular hypothesis, by adding new criteria for what constitutes evidence. I can't say I agree with it.
I get that and I agree. I'll relent on that. It's just that I remember the circumstances much differently. And our own memories are anecdotal at best. My viewpoint remains that the Saints didn't give Baun opportunities outside of ST and eventually pass rusher. I don't think Davis harmed his development as much as we'd like to say now, but thats speculation too. Ellias did find an article that points to when they transitioned him to playing just OLB though so that helps.
I would have like to see more opportunity for a player they moved up in the draft to get. If he turned out to be a bust, that's one thing, people miss in the draft. But to know they had a vision for him, then "transitioned away" from it just feels like mismanagement and is very frustrating.