Grading every New Orleans Saints pick from the 2021 NFL Draft
Saints draft pick: Ian Book, QB, Notre Dame
Ian Book is a versatile, gritty winner. He’s a dual-threat quarterback as well, showing an aptitude at using his athleticism. His collegiate highlights also showcased how well he can move around in the pocket.
Given his arm strength and accuracy, hitting over a 65 percent completion rate just once in his four-year career, Book may never be a consistent starter. It was a solid pick given their position and situational needs at quarterback, Hopefully, he thrives in the Big Easy.
Grade: B-
Saints draft pick: Landon Young, OT, Kentucky
The Saints had to release Nick Easton this offseason, so they were in need of a bit of depth on the offensive line. Andrus Peat rarely stays healthy for an entire season as well, so adding a lineman almost seemed like a must for the Saints.
They traded up to draft Kentucky’s Landon Young. While Young won’t be a starter and may not even be ready as a backup, at 6-foot-7, 320 pounds, he certainly has the size that it takes to excel at the next level.
Grade: B+
Saints draft pick: Kawaan Baker, WR, South Alabama
A kick returner and a wide receiver, the Saints drafted Kawaan Baker with their last pick in the draft.
With an unofficial 4.41 40-yard dash, Baker has great speed. While he did have a knee injury in 2020 as a senior, it clearly hasn’t hurt his speed. Baker had 51 receptions and 659 yards last season.
New Orleans needed a receiver, and Baker may be a diamond in the rough.
Grade: A-
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