2018 NFL Mock Draft: Opening Weekend Edition
By Jon Dove
13. New Orleans Saints- Arden Key, Edge, LSU
Arden Key’s status at LSU still remains up in the air, but the expectation is that he’ll be back in the mix soon. When on the field, Key is an elite pass rusher who forces the quarterback to make mistakes. He wins with a combination of size and speed.
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Key features a long frame and arms that allows him to initiate contact. He fights for inside hand placement and is strong enough to keep clean. His ability to quickly get off the ball immediately puts the blocker at a disadvantage.
He isn’t just a pass-rush specialist as Key does also play the run with integrity. Key could hear his name called much earlier than this if he checks out off the field.
Landing Key at this spot would be a major steal for the New Orleans Saints. They have a major need for a pass rusher capable of working opposite Cameron Jordan. Key would provide the speed while Jordan attacks with power.
The Saints have focused on improving their defense over the past few years and Key could be the final piece to the puzzle. A defensive line featuring Key, Jordan and Sheldon Rankins has a chance to be unstoppable.