In the NFC South, the Falcons opted for a risky move with Michael Penix Jr. at QB, potentially affecting the fantasy landscape with his uncertain role behind Kirk Cousins. The Panthers aimed to bolster their offensive arsenal, selecting Xavier Legette and Ja’Tavion Sanders, potentially elevating their fantasy relevance, especially if they integrate quickly into key roles alongside Bryce Young. New Orleans addressed their offensive line with Taliese Fuaga, which is crucial for maintaining protection for their QB and impacting the fantasy outlook for their offensive skill players. Tampa Bay prioritized offensive line and defensive depth, possibly stabilizing their fantasy-relevant positions with solid picks like Graham Barton and Chris Braswell. While Tykee Smith’s selection may seem early, it reflects a commitment to defensive strength, indirectly impacting offensive matchups in fantasy.
Taliese Fuaga, OT, Oregon State:
Taliese Fuaga is an NFL offensive tackle for the New Orleans Saints. He earned All-American honors while playing college football for the Oregon State Beavers in 2023. Fuaga excelled at Mount Tahoma High School in Tacoma, Washington, playing both offensive and defensive line positions. Despite offers from prestigious programs, he committed to Oregon State University, where he became a standout starter, recognized for his performance in 2022 and 2023.
The selection of Taliese Fuaga addresses a pressing need for the Saints, whose offensive line struggled in 2023. Fuaga’s versatility and experience as a team captain make him a valuable addition, capable of competing for a starting role at either left or right tackle. With concerns about Ryan Ramczyk’s health and the need for improved pass protection, Fuaga’s agility and aggressiveness align well with the Saints’ scheme, providing immediate impact and long-term stability to the offensive line.
Fantasy Impact:
Taliese Fuaga’s selection by the New Orleans Saints adds an athletic lineman with strong run-blocking skills. With the potential to thrive at guard or tackle, Fuaga’s impressive college performance and combined results suggest he could make an immediate impact in the Saints’ offense, especially in bolstering the running game. However, his fantasy impact may depend on his ability to secure a starting role and adapt to the NFL level of competition
Statistical Analysis
Taliese Fuaga, a two-year starter from Oregon State, brings size and power to the Saints’ offensive line. With 25 career starts at right tackle, he’s adept at run blocking and delivers jolts at the point of attack. Fuaga’s roadmap to NFL success includes refining his footwork to handle inside moves and improving his hand placement in pass protection to counter varied rush techniques. Additionally, his versatility to potentially play guard adds value to his role, offering flexibility in the Saints’ offensive scheme
According to The Athletic, Taliese Fuaga, ranked No. 17 overall and fourth among offensive tackles, displays solid pass protection skills despite his high pad level. Noted for his aggressive playing style, he needs help sustaining run blocks. However, his exceptional handwork aids him in countering edge rushers effectively. Fuaga’s athleticism allows him to mirror rush movements well, compensating for any lack of range in recovery.
Spencer Rattler, QB, South Carolina
Spencer Rattler, former quarterback for Oklahoma and South Carolina, now plays for the New Orleans Saints in the NFL. He earned accolades in college, including First-team All-Big 12 in 2020. Rattler’s college career showcased highs and lows, notably leading South Carolina to back-to-back wins against top 10 teams in 2022. Despite a strong showing in the 2023 season, he declared for the 2024 NFL draft, eventually being selected by the Saints.
NFL Team Fit
Spencer Rattler, despite his shorter stature, possesses exceptional arm talent and pocket toughness, making him an intriguing prospect for the New Orleans Saints. His ability to throw accurately at all levels and navigate pressure in the pocket could complement the Saints’ offensive scheme well. His arm strength and potential as a playmaker could offer valuable depth behind the Saints’ current quarterback, providing a solid option for the future. Rattler’s skills might need refinement, but he could develop into a viable starter given the right guidance and coaching within the Saints’ system
Fantasy Impact:
Known for his impressive arm talent, Rattler brings potential to the table, having shown promise during his college career at South Carolina and Oklahoma. However, his tendency to be overconfident on the field may pose challenges as he transitions to the NFL level. In his rookie year, Rattler may face stiff competition for playing time and could require time to acclimate to the Saints’ offensive system and the speed of the professional game. Rattler’s fantasy impact could be limited initially, but his long-term potential remains intriguing for fantasy managers to monitor.
Statistical Analysis
Path to Success:
To succeed in the NFL, Spencer Rattler must harness his exceptional arm talent and adaptability. Despite his shorter stature, he can excel by leveraging his pocket toughness and maneuverability. Rattler needs to refine his decision-making to avoid recklessness. Developing a deeper understanding of pro-style passing concepts will be crucial for his growth. His success will hinge on his ability to refine his skills and adapt to the demands of the NFL game.
Expert Opinions:
Experts widely regarded Spencer Rattler as a top-100 prospect, with many ranking him even higher. Dane Brugler from The Athletic ranked him at No. 72 overall and as the 7th quarterback, while Mel Kiper of ESPN placed him at No. 99 overall in the same quarterback spot. Additionally, Daniel Jeremiah of NFL Network ranked Rattler at No. 92 overall and also as the 7th quarterback. These rankings suggest that the New Orleans Saints acquired significant value by selecting Rattler at No. 150 overall in the fifth round of the draft.
Bub Means, WR, Pittsburgh
During his college football journey, Jerrod “Bub” Means showcased versatility and talent across different programs. After redshirting at Tennessee, he made an impact at Louisiana Tech with 22 receptions for 430 yards and two touchdowns in his debut season. Transitioning to Pittsburgh, Means continued to excel, contributing 27 receptions for 401 yards and two touchdowns in his first year. His performance peaked in his second season at Pittsburgh, where he recorded 41 receptions for 721 yards and six touchdowns.
NFL Team Fit
Bub Means brings a strong vertical presence and athleticism, fitting well into their offensive scheme. With his speed and size, Means adds a deep threat element to the receiving corps, potentially stretching opposing defenses. Means’ low-energy blocking could be a concern, but his potential as a Day 3 pick offers value for the Saints, especially if they aim to bolster their receiving depth and enhance their vertical passing game.
Fantasy Impact:
Bub Means offers depth at wide receiver. While possessing the physical attributes for the position, his inconsistency may limit his immediate fantasy impact. With established receivers like Chris Olave, Rashid Shaheed, A.T. Perry, and Cedrick Wilson Jr., Means may face competition for playing time. In his rookie year, fantasy managers should temper expectations, considering his role as a rotational option and potential development within the Saints’ offensive system.
Statistical Analysis:
Path to Success:
Bub Means is a vertical X receiver with promising athletic tools. While demonstrating potential in route running, he needs refinement to excel in the NFL. Means must improve consistency in catching and develop hand usage against press coverage. With dedication and coaching, he has the opportunity to carve out a role as a reliable target and contribute to the Saints’ receiving corps.
Expert Opinions:
According to NFL.com, Bub Means is a big receiver suited for layered passing schemes, showing proficiency in slipping press coverage and creating separation on certain routes. While effective in contested catches, he sometimes struggles to utilize his size consistently against coverage. Means’ potential challenges include executing routes that require quick speed changes. Despite average production, his ability to stretch the field may earn him a Day 3 selection, with potential as an NFL backup.
Comparative Analysis:
Compared to previous years, the New Orleans Saints draft class seems more focused on building depth across various positions rather than targeting key fantasy positions. While they did select a quarterback, running back, and wide receiver, there’s no standout talent like Bryan Bresee from the 2023 class. However, they’ve added potential contributors across the offensive line and secondary, indicating a broader approach to team building. Overall, the 2024 draft class lacks the star power seen in previous years but offers solid depth across the roster.
Conclusion
The New Orleans Saints focused on bolstering key positions in the 2024 NFL draft, starting with Taliese Fuaga, an OT from Oregon State, to address offensive line concerns. Spencer Rattler, drafted in the fifth round, adds depth at quarterback, indicating a future-oriented approach. Bub Means, a speedy WR from Pittsburgh, fills the void left by Michael Thomas’s departure, enhancing the receiving corps. Josiah Ezirim, an OT from Eastern Kentucky, provides additional offensive line depth. These picks reflect a strategy to address immediate needs while also considering long-term prospects for the team’s success.