The New Orleans Saints could be without stalwart offensive tackle Ryan Ramczyk for the 2024 season as his injured knee could limit him for the upcoming campaign.
However, a potential long-term upgrade for the Saints could be available in the first round of the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft.
Penn State All-American offensive tackle Olu Fashanu could potentially be on the board for the New Orleans Saints when they go on the clock, and if he is, would be difficult to pass up.
That’s the exact scenario in Eric Edholm’s latest NFL Mock Draft, with the Saints tabbing Fashanu at No. 14 overall.
“The health status on Ryan Ramczyk doesn’t sound great,” Edholm writes for NFL.com “And 2022 first-rounder Trevor Penning hasn’t panned out yet, so the Saints likely need a starting-caliber talent to play tackle. I’m a little worried about Fashanu’s run blocking, but he’s a facile pass protector who is just starting to reach his athletic peak.”
Olu Fashanu NFL Draft Scouting Report
At 6-foot-6 and 317 pounds, Fashanu is viewed as one of the premier offensive tackle prospects in this year’s class.
“A toolsy two-year starter with loads of potential,” Lance Zierlein of NFL Media writes of Fashanu. “Fashanu is still learning to be less mechanical and more instinctive with his play. At this point, he could impose his traits upon most collegiate opponents and stack the deck in his favor.
“As a pro, he will need to play with better control and more consistent technique to prevent being countered and beaten by NFL talent. There is still room to get bigger and stronger, but he’s already playing with good focus and drive as a run blocker.”
Pro Football Focus points out that Fashanu didn’t allow a sack across three seasons in Happy Valley, while surrendering just one quarterback pressure. Last season, PFF awarded Fashanu an elite 88.4 pass-rush grade and 70.5 run-blocking mark.
If the Saints in fact prioritize fortifying left tackle with their first-round pick. Fashanu could be a top player to watch as a top-15 selection.
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