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NFL Scouting Combine: 10 defensive linemen for New Orleans Saints to eye

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Dec 5, 2015; Waco, TX, USA; Baylor Bears defensive tackle Andrew Billings (75) rushes against the Texas Longhorns during the first quarter at McLane Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 5, 2015; Waco, TX, USA; Baylor Bears defensive tackle Andrew Billings (75) rushes against the Texas Longhorns during the first quarter at McLane Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /
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DeForest Buckner
Dec 5, 2014; Santa Clara, CA, USA; Oregon Ducks defensive end DeForest Buckner (44) celebrates after a sack in the second quarter against the Arizona Wildcats in the Pac-12 Championship at Levi /

Name: DeForest Buckner
School: Oregon
Position: DE
Size: 6-foot-7, 281 LBS
Projected round: 1

Talk about a massive dude.  Buckner boats a colossal frame with long arms and broad shoulders.  The New Orleans Saints are lacking at the defensive end position opposite Cam Jordan, while having little proven talent at defensive tackle.  Bucker could help solidify both.

His game is based on more power (very powerful) rather than speed.  He’s a proven pass rusher in the NCAA and an incredible tackler (second on the team), which earned him the title of Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year.  In a scheme like the Saints run, Buckner could add a solid presence blitzing from the edge as a defensive end, while also shifting over to tackle in certain packages to add some speed in the middle alongside Tyeler Davison or John Jenkins.

As one of the top players in this loaded draft class, Buckner is an ideal fit for the Saints, who are in desperate need of beefing up their inadequate pass rush, which could ultimately help out their secondary.  IF he falls to No. 12, it will be hard to pass up his talents.

Next: Jonathan Bullard

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