One thing I've consistantly noticed in nearly everyone's post draft analysis is that Sean Payton's reputation is preceeding him.

In other words, what if our draft hadn't been as successful as it was last year? We would be the butt of the draft talk because we took 1) 4 guys from small schools 2) a RB that, in the eyes of those not close to the Saints, we didn't need 3) a WR in the first when many were thinking defense. etc etc.

It's almost like everyone's giving Payton a free pass on this class. It's like, being drafted by the Saints is almost official confirmation that these small school guys can play. What a change from years past, huh?

Don't get the wrong impression. I'm not saying they can't play. Not at all. I personally have a good feeling about some of these guys too, but, I can't help but notice that no one wants to be the one to dog our picks just in case there are a few Colstons and Evans' in this class.

Just sayin'

I think the funny thing is that we basically said the exact same things about the draft last year, with many critics saying how the only thing we did right was drafting Bush -- we didn't get any help on the o-line until late in day 2, and we didn't get any linebackers, two units that were supposed to be the weakest in possibly the entire league and definitely the division. 3 starters (Harper, Evans, and Colston, 4 if you count Reggie), 2 solid contributors (Ninkovich, Strief) and an NFC Championship berth later, I think I'll wait until we actually play the games and see the guys stink before I say anything bad about our draft strategy.

We had the most productive draft of the year last year offensively,and it would have been great defensively had not Roman Harper hurt his leg. He was shaping up to be great, and, with him back 100% I expect him to start every game next year. What more do you need to know about the talent evaluation abilities of Payton?

everyone forgets that it doesnt matter whether you come from a big school or a small one, its all about the talent that you have and the willingness of a coaching staff to help you with the transition. Yes maybe the learning curve is different at a powerhouse program, but the game of football isnt any different at any level. Talent is talent. period.

why would you want to take the big scouting report as the bible on players.if it was that good you could save a fortune on the scouting dept.just read the papers and draft what you need from the big school.forget these no name players like colston or tom brady.most offensive lineman are developed for 1 to 2 years before being ready for starting play. we are hunting future or injury replacements now.we no longer need to replace 3/4's of team