Analyzing the Saints’ first-round selection of Payton Turner

With rumors all around the franchise, the Saints stayed put, but they also made a pick that surprised most. With the 28th pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, the New Orleans Saints selected Payton Turner, DE, Houston.

The Saints surprised many with their selection of edge rusher Payton Turner. What should be made of their pick in this position?

It wouldn’t be an NFL draft without rumors of the Saints trading up, and this year was no different. With indications that they wanted to move up in the top ten for a defensive player, or even a quarterback, fans were left on the edge of the seat wondering what the team would do.

Alas, in the end, New Orleans stood pat, and the player they selected was a surprise. Not only was the team not expected to target an edge rusher, but they also took a player not expected by many to go in the first round.

Who is Payton Turner, what is his future outlook, and what does this pick mean for the Saints? Let us break it down in depth.