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2017 NFL Draft: Post-Super Bowl Mock for All 32 Teams

By Peter Panacy

May 8, 2014; New York, NY, USA; A general view of the stage and podium before the start of the 2014 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports
May 8, 2014; New York, NY, USA; A general view of the stage and podium before the start of the 2014 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 5, 2016; Knoxville, TN, USA; Tennessee Volunteers defensive end Derek Barnett (9) during the second quarter against the Tennessee Tech Golden Eagles at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 5, 2016; Knoxville, TN, USA; Tennessee Volunteers defensive end Derek Barnett (9) during the second quarter against the Tennessee Tech Golden Eagles at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports /

Defensive End. Tennessee. Derek Barnett. 11. player. 15.

So help me if the New Orleans Saints go offense in Round 1.

The Saints need help almost everywhere on defense. And if we go with the “it all starts up front” argument, selecting Tennessee defensive end Derek Barnett makes a lot of sense.

Barnett isn’t a natural pass-rusher, per se. But he has the awareness and ability to create regular pressure on opposing quarterbacks, which could open up more opportunities for other edge rushers to get home.

He’s also good against the run, which would help give New Orleans a two-piece defender to solidify the defensive front.