Expert Analysis
4/30/23
3 min read
New Orleans Saints NFL Draft Grades 2023: Bryan Bresee Adds Potent Pass Rush
The 2023 NFL Draft is complete, and the New Orleans Saints made six selections.
Derek Carr is the Saints' new quarterback as the team looks to reclaim the NFC South with Tom Brady's retirement weakening the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Instead of giving Carr new weapons on offense, the Saints used their two top-40 picks on the defensive side of the ball. Let's dive into how the Saints' class graded out.
Saints 2023 NFL Draft Grades
29. Bryan Bresee, IDL, Clemson
The Saints needed to beef up their defensive line with the losses of David Onyemata and Marcus Davenport. Bryan Bresee is a high-motor player who did not play as well later in his college career due to injuries. He also lost his sister early into the 2022 season after a battle with brain cancer. Bresee showed flashes of athleticism and power and eased some concerns by testing well at the combine. He has the ability to play multiple different spots on the defensive line and can be a productive player in the run game and pass rush.
Grade: C+
40. Isaiah Foskey, Edge, Notre Dame
The Saints are attacking the defensive line in this draft with the addition of Isaiah Foskey after picking Bresee in Round 1. Foskey has outstanding length and fits the profile of a New Orleans Saints edge rusher. He may have been a bit overlooked in this draft and has been compared to Davenport.
Grade: B-
103. Nick Saldiveri, OG, Old Dominion
Nick Saldiveri is a tough and smart player who lacks ideal athletic traits but does have position flexibility. He had a solid performance at this year's Senior Bowl, too.
Grade: C-
127. Jake Haener, QB, Fresno State
Jake Haener lacks ideal size for the quarterback position, but he is extremely smart and instinctive. He does not have a big arm, but he is accurate and will be able to run the Saints' offense.
Grade: C+
146. Jordan Howden, SAF, Minnesota
New Orleans continues to hit every position in this draft. Jordan Howden is a versatile safety with man coverage skills and competitive play urgency. He should be an early contributor on special teams and will benefit from learning from Tyrann Mathieu.
Grade: B-
195. AT Perry, WR, Wake Forest
AT Perry is a good-sized wideout for the Saints, who can bully smaller defenders down the field. He does not have elite top-end speed but is a good route runner who will use his big frame to be a friendly target for new quarterback Derek Carr.
Grade: A
