The New Orleans Saints' offense is really good. Their defense is, well, really bad. In 2012, the Saints' defense was ranked last in yards allowed per game by at least 57 yards. Their offense is set as long as Drew Brees is under center, so the team has made defense their priority this offseason. With Rob Ryan now controlling the unit, the team is targeting star cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha in free agency. While he remains torn on where to sign, the Saints look to the draft and Alec Ogletree as a way to improve at the position.
Ogletree is a risk. While he is a playmaker on the field, he is trouble off the field. While he is arguably the best player to come out of Georgia the season with his talent level, he has had issues since the college season ended. Most recently, Ogletree was charged with a DUI just two weeks before the NFL combine. Prior to that, he was charged with theft as a freshman and failed multiple drug tests that led to a four-game suspension in 2012. This made him a risk in the eyes of most teams. With character issues now attached to his name, Ogletree drops out of the top-10 easily, but still remains a first-round lock based on his skill level.
At 6-3, 232-pounds, Ogletree would fit perfectly into the Saints new 3-4 defense. His past will cause him to fall past teams on the draft board and land in the Saints' lap at No. 15. Ogletree can contribute as a three-down linebacker. He surpassed 100 tackles in his senior season even with the four-game suspension and is known for his speed and authority in tackling.
The Saints are still attempting to get Asomugha, but the talks between the two parties have stalled as the cornerback claims to be torn in whether to join the Saints or head out west to the San Francisco 49ers. If Asomugha signs with the Saints, he would be reunited with his former Oakland Raiders defensive coordinator Ryan.
If the Saints can get Ogletree to put his past behind him and focus on football, they could have a potential Defensive Rookie of the Year on their hands. The Houston Texans are also reportedly interested in Ogletree but they draft at 27, and he will likely be gone by then. At 15, New Orleans has the best chance to land the player that is likely their top target in the draft.
