The Saints selection of Ohio State defensive back Malcolm Jenkins with the 14th pick seems like a solid one.
Jenkins has big play potential, and he played in of the best programs in college football. He will start at cornerback but could eventually wind up at safety.
With Jenkins on board, the Saints appear to have a nice nucleus of young talent. Jenkins and last year's second round pick Tracy Porter will improve the secondary. Last year's number one Sedrick Ellis should make a big leap in year 2.
Offensively, the Saints have a pair of talented young guards, Jahri Evans and Carl Nicks. Wide receiver Marques Colston and Reggie Bush are both big plays threats.
And, with Drew Brees healthy, the Saints are in every game.
So, what will decide the Saints fate in 2009? Two things: a healthy Drew Brees. No player is more important to his team than Brees is to the Saints. And, two: a commitment to being a tougher football team. There's a reason why the Saints under Sean Payton have fared poorly against Carolina. Because the Panthers are better up front.
On an NFL.com predraft chat , one of their reporters said he thought the Saints would choose Ohio State runner Beanie Wells at pick 14. Also on that same panel, former Bucs head coach Jon Gruden. Said Gruden, "what makes you think they are going to run the ball?"
The Saints appear to be piecing together a solid young nucleus around Drew Brees. And, in a bit of irony, the more Brees throws the less the Saints win.