New Orleans Saints' 2012 NFL Draft Analysis

Saints Football Jersey, 3rd Round (#89) DE Akiem Hicks, Regina

4th Round (#122) WR Nick Toon, Wisconsin

5th Round (#162) SS Corey White, Samford

6th Round (#179) G Andrew Tiller, Syracuse

7th Round (#234) OT Marcel Jones, Nebraska

Analysis of Notable Selections:

Akiem Hicks: The Saints surrendered 5 yards per carry last season to opposing running backs. The team needs to stop the run much better and added the huge Akiem Hicks (6\'5 and 320 lbs) to help strengthen the middle of their defense. Hicks played collegiate football in Canada after recruiting violations ended his chance to play at LSU. This is a move similar to when the Chargers drafted Vaughn Martin from Saints Football Jersey a Canadian University in the 4th round Saints Football Jersey of the 2009 NFL draft. It took Martin a couple of years to polish his game, but he did start last season and played OK. Hicks faces a huge jump in competition and will have to work very hard to learn proper technique. He has to be considered a project at this point and the Saints passed on Brandon Thompson. The former Clemson star could have helped the Saints sooner than Hicks likely will be able to.

Nick Toon: New Orleans depends on a deep wide receiver group to help fuel one of the NFL\'s best offenses. Robert Meachem departed the Saints for the Chargers and Toon has a chance to fill his shoes. The former Badger had his share of injuries and may not be able to shake recurring problems with his left foot. Toon does not have Meachem\'s speed, but could be a decent possession receiver in New Orleans\' offense if he can stay healthy.

Marcel Jones: The former Nebraska offensive tackle has a terrific frame and decent quickness. Jones has struggled with injuries including a back injury. He must gain strength, but represented decent value late in the draft provided he stays healthy. New Orleans may have found a backup offensive lineman in the 7th round.

2012 NFL Draft Grade: C-

Bottom Line: The Saints only had five draft choices and none in the prized Saints Football Jersey 1st and 2nd round. They may have only found a couple of players (Akiem Hicks and Nick Toon) who can provide depth in the future. New Orleans\' defense still is not of championship quality and the 2012 draft class will not provide much help.