Top 5 dream draft picks at No. 29 for the New Orleans Saints
By Randy Gurzi
Saints draft target No. 4: Deonte Banks, CB, Maryland
When he's on top of his game, Marshon Lattimore can be one of the better cornerbacks in the NFL. He's had some up and down stretches over the past few seasons but he's still a very capable defensive back with the size and speed to match up against No. 1 wideouts throughout the NFL.
As for Paulson Adebo, that hasn't been the case. He's been the primary starter across from Lattimore but the Saints could surely use an upgrade and Deonte Banks from Maryland could be the perfect complement to Lattimore.
Official numbers for Maryland CB Deonte Banks
— Trevor Sikkema (@TampaBayTre) March 3, 2023
40-yard: 4.35 (92nd percentile)
Vert: 42” (97th percentile)
Broad: 11’4” (98th percentile)
That athleticism absolutely shows up on tape as one of the best coverage players in that class. First round playerpic.twitter.com/ebfvn25dak
He's similar in size at 6-foot-0 and 197-pounds and can also keep up with any wideout, evidenced by his 4.35 time in the 40-yard dash. That ability to run with anyone is one reason Lance Zierlein of NFL.com says he can be a CB1 one day.
"Perimeter corner with desired blend of size, strength and athleticism. Banks is capable of release disruption from press. He plays with smooth hips and easy feet to pedal and glide around the field. He’s capable of matching the release and running with his opponent. "
- Lance Zierlein, NFL.com
The NFC South isn't as dangerous as it once was but if the Saints want to make any noise in the postseason, they're going to need to improve their pass defense. Adding Banks would do exactly that.