2016 NFL Mock Draft: Holiday Update
By Jon Dove
12. New Orleans Saints (5-8)- A’Shawn Robinson, DL, Alabama
The New Orleans Saints are facing a very important offseason as the window to win with Drew Brees is rapidly closing. There are enough pieces in place on offense to make a Super Bowl run, but the defense needs a ton of help.
Dennis Allen will get these last few games of the year to stake his claim to the defensive coordinator job. He is off to a solid start but there’s still room for improvement. The draft will provide the Saints an opportunity to add another important piece to the puzzle.
Alabama’s A’Shawn Robinson is a hard-nosed player who fights to control the line of scrimmage. He uses inside hands, leverage and raw power to hold at the point of attack. Robinson is the type of defensive lineman who can take on double teams and occupy blockers.
He has also shown the ability to get off blocks and make plays away from his frame. However, the Saints would look for him to keep blockers off linebackers like Stephone Anthony.
The cornerback spot is another area of concern thanks to major struggles of free-agent signee Brandon Browner. He has been a penalty magnet while also giving up his share of big plays.
Next: No. 13 New York Giants