It’s tough to find instant-impact players so late in the first round, but the New Orleans Saints have done it before when slotted at No. 29 overall. That’s where they’re picking from after acquiring a first-round pick from the Denver Broncos this offseason. And the Saints have been in this slot two times before — way back in 1981 and 1973.
In 1981, they selected Nebraska defensive back Russell Gary; the dynamic strong safety started 58 of the 62 games he played for New Orleans, finishing his career with a two-year run with the Philadelphia Eagles. He totaled 7 interceptions, 4 sacks, and 4 fumble recoveries in six seasons with the Saints.
