He runs like a defensive back, jumps like an NBA small forward and bench-presses like a bodybuilder.

But the most impressive thing about new Saints defensive end Will Smith isn't his eye-popping athletic ability or his impressive college rèsumè, former teammate LeCharles Bentley said.

"The most important thing about Will is his character," said Bentley, a former teammate of Smith at Ohio State. "He's a real mature guy and a good leader. I think we need more of that in our locker room."

Those intangibles are what separated the former Buckeyes standout from Miami defensive tackle Vince Wilfork, who the Saints also considered with the No. 18 overall selection.

Smith simply was too good a player and person to pass, even though the club already boasts quality ends in Darren Howard and Charles Grant.

Some scouts compare Smith's versatility to another former Buckeye: Mike Vrabel, who plays outside linebacker and defensive end for the Super Bowl-champion New England Patriots.

"You heard we tried to get Tony Brackens from Jacksonville (in free agency)," Saints defensive line coach John Pease said. "We got him. We drafted him. . . . He's got the speed and agility to be a linebacker. I think what you are talking about is Tony Brackens, Pat Swilling, that kind of athlete. . . . I think it sends a good message to this defensive line that we are building for speed."