Beset picks from each round of Saints drafts under Mickey Loomis

The New Orleans Saints, under the leadership of General Manager Mickey Loomis, have had their fair share of draft picks over the years. Some have been hits, while others have been misses. In this article, we will take a look at some of the best selections made by the Saints in each round of the NFL Draft during Loomis’ tenure.

First Round: Drew Brees (2001)

One of the most iconic draft picks in Saints history came in the first round of the 2001 NFL Draft when they selected quarterback Drew Brees out of Purdue University. At the time, Brees was coming off a successful college career, but there were concerns about his size and arm strength. However, Loomis and the Saints saw something special in Brees and decided to take a chance on him.

That decision paid off in a big way, as Brees went on to become one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history. He led the Saints to their first Super Bowl victory in 2009 and broke numerous records along the way. Brees’ leadership, work ethic, and on-field performance made him a fan favorite in New Orleans and solidified his place in Saints history.

Second Round: Marques Colston (2006)

In the second round of the 2006 NFL Draft, the Saints selected wide receiver Marques Colston out of Hofstra University. Colston was a relatively unknown prospect coming out of college, but Loomis and the Saints saw his potential and decided to take a chance on him.

Colston quickly became a key player in the Saints’ offense, forming a strong connection with Brees. He was known for his reliable hands, crisp route-running, and ability to make big plays in crucial moments. Colston went on to have a successful career in New Orleans, becoming the Saints’ all-time leader in receiving yards and touchdowns.

Third Round: Jimmy Graham (2010)

In the third round of the 2010 NFL Draft, the Saints selected tight end Jimmy Graham out of the University of Miami. Graham was a basketball player turned football player, and his raw athleticism and potential intrigued the Saints’ coaching staff.

Graham quickly became a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses, using his size and speed to create mismatches all over the field. He was a favorite target of Brees and was a key contributor in the Saints’ passing game for several years. Graham went on to have a successful career in New Orleans before being traded to the Seattle Seahawks in 2015.

Fourth Round: Carl Nicks (2008)

In the fourth round of the 2008 NFL Draft, the Saints selected offensive guard Carl Nicks out of the University of Nebraska. Nicks was a powerful and physical lineman who quickly became a force in the Saints’ offensive line.

Nicks was a key part of the Saints’ Super Bowl-winning team in 2009, helping to protect Brees and open up running lanes for the running backs. He was named to the Pro Bowl twice during his time in New Orleans and was widely regarded as one of the best guards in the NFL.

Fifth Round: Thomas Morstead (2009)

In the fifth round of the 2009 NFL Draft, the Saints selected punter Thomas Morstead out of Southern Methodist University. While punters are not typically high-profile draft picks, Morstead quickly became a fan favorite in New Orleans.

Morstead was known for his strong leg, accuracy, and ability to pin opponents deep in their own territory. He was a key contributor on special teams for the Saints and played a crucial role in their success over the years. Morstead was named to the Pro Bowl and All-Pro teams multiple times during his time in New Orleans.

Sixth Round: Zach Strief (2006)

In the sixth round of the 2006 NFL Draft, the Saints selected offensive tackle Zach Strief out of Northwestern University. Strief was a versatile lineman who could play multiple positions along the offensive line.

Strief quickly became a valuable player for the Saints, providing depth and stability on the offensive line. He eventually became a starter and was known for his intelligence, technique, and leadership on and off the field. Strief played his entire career in New Orleans and was a fan favorite before retiring in 2018.

Seventh Round: Pierre Thomas (2007)

In the seventh round of the 2007 NFL Draft, the Saints selected running back Pierre Thomas out of the University of Illinois. Thomas was a versatile and hard-working back who quickly became a key player in the Saints’ offense.

Thomas was known for his toughness, vision, and ability to make plays both as a runner and receiver out of the backfield. He played a crucial role in the Saints’ Super Bowl run in 2009 and was a reliable and consistent performer throughout his career in New Orleans.

In conclusion, the New Orleans Saints have had their fair share of draft picks over the years, and some have been more successful than others. Under the leadership of Mickey Loomis, the Saints have been able to find talent in every round of the NFL Draft and build a competitive and successful team. From Drew Brees to Marques Colston to Jimmy Graham and beyond, the Saints have made some key selections that have helped shape the team’s identity and success. As they continue to draft and develop players under Loomis’ leadership, Saints fans can expect more great picks to come in the future.

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Source: USA Today