2018 NFL Mock Draft: Impact of recent trades and signings

The New Orleans Saints have committed to extending the Drew Brees era. With a defense that’s ready to contend and a running game that appears to be prepared for the same type of push, the next step is providing Brees with the necessary talent at the skill positions.

Finding another wide receiver to pair with Michael Thomas could be a wise idea, but the best option for this team would be Penn State Nittany Lions tight end Mike Gesicki.

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Gesicki is the best athlete this draft class has to offer at tight end. Amongst players at his position, he ranked No. 1 at the Scouting Combine in the 40-yard dash, vertical jump, broad jump, three cone drill, 20-yard shuttle, and 60-yard shuttle.

Gesicki also ranked No. 2 at his position in the bench press, which firmly displays how dynamic an athlete he is for a tight end—let alone a 6’5″ and 247-pound force of nature.

Beyond the athleticism, Gesicki has a big catch radius and the hands to make plays on the ball. He moves like a running back after the catch, displaying the physicality and athleticism to pick up significant yardage after the catch.

There could be other options at No. 27 overall, but Gesicki is one of the most promising raw talents in the recent history of the tight end position.