Shaq Lawson making a trip to visit New Orleans Saints, report says
Shaq Lawson has a pre-draft visit scheduled with the pass-rush needy New Orleans Saints, according to NFL Network.
After exploding onto the scene at the NFL combine, Shaq Lawson shot up the draft boards. Some are even beginning to consider him the top defensive end and/or pass rusher in the incoming rookie class, and for good reason.
I'm told former #Clemson DE Shaq Lawson has visits and/or workouts on the books with the #Cowboys, #49ers and #Saints.
— Rand Getlin (@RandGetlin) March 22, 2016
Add the #Panthers to the teams Lawson is auditioning for. Going to be busy for him in the run up to the draft. https://t.co/BQcykoLd4F
— Rand Getlin (@RandGetlin) March 22, 2016
The New Orleans Saints need major help in the pass rush, and Sean Payton said it was their biggest need. Adding a pass rusher in free agency is still a possibility, but the team must first find salary cap relief.
A freak athlete like Lawson could also do the trick. In addition to pressuring the quarterback, he can assist in stopping the run out of the backfield after leading the NCAA in tackles for loss (22.5) in 2015. This kid could be the real deal.
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His size, quickness, burst, power, and pursuit should bode well for him at the next level. Highlighted by a 4.70 40-yard dash at the combine (fourth among defensive linemen), he was a top performer in several drills.
If Shaq Lawson falls into the hands of the Saints at No. 12, I’m sure linebacker Stephone Anthony wouldn’t mind building something special in New Orleans with his former college teammate.
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Cam Jordan could also use the help on the opposite side at defensive end. Lawson also said he’s open to switching to outside linebacker. He also reportedly has visits scheduled with the Dallas Cowboys, San Francisco 49ers, and Carolina Panthers. The Saints brought Lawson out to dinner while at Clemson’s pro day.