New Orleans spent a Day 2 draft choice on promising TE Adam Trautman in 2020. Will they look to double up on the position in the 2021 draft? New Orleans spent a Day 2 draft choice on promising TE Adam Trautman in 2020. Will they look to double up on the position in the 2021 draft?
By Bob Rose | SI
New Orleans Saints tight end Adam Trautman was selected in the 3rd round in the 2020 draft with the 105th overall pick out of Dayton. The team traded all four of its Day 3 picks to Minnesota to move back into the 3rd round to grab him. New Orleans made that deal with the expectation that Trautman would take over the starting job in 2021.
Trautman caught 16 of 19 targets for 175 yards and a touchdown in his rookie year. He also impressed coaches with his blocking, earning him more playing time over the course of the season. While Trautman looks to be the starting tight end to open the season, the Saints have little depth behind him.
New Orleans moved on from disappointing veteran TE Jared Cook and released the reliable Josh Hill this offseason. They added veteran TE Nick Vannett in free agency, but he offers little downfield threat as a receiver.
For the first time since 2005, Drew Brees will not be the New Orleans quarterback to start a season. The Saints could use the draft to give new starter Jameis Winston extra weapons. While they may bring in another wideout, they could also use a mid-round pick on another tight end to complement Trautman.
Full Story - SI
