New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees has been surrounded by trade rumors this offseason. At first glance, they make absolutely no sense. Brees is still one of the best QBs in the league. But even though it's highly unlikely he's going anywhere, it's clear that Saints head coach Sean Payton has an eye towards the future.
New Orleans has already shipped off key offensive contributors such as Jimmy Graham and Kenny Stills. The team has even been rumored to be willing to part ways with defensive end Cameron Jordan and guard Jahri Evans. Clearly, New Orleans is entering a bit of a re-build. As such, it's not a surprise that Payton may be looking for Brees' eventual replacement in this draft. But who would be able to succeed Brees?
ESPN NFL Draft Insider Mel Kiper Jr. projects the Saints to select Baylor quarterback Bryce Petty with the No. 78 overall pick in the draft.
"I don't think Petty can play right away, but the Saints already have added so much talent I like making a long-term play at this spot," Kiper wrote.
Petty threw for 3,855 yards with 29 touchdowns and just seven interceptions last season. ESPN considers him the third best QB prospect in this year's draft class. However, he does have a tough transition ahead of him. He rarely set protections or made audibles in Baylor's offense and is just now learning how to read defenses and respond accordingly. On the plus side, he has the accuracy, arm strength and pocket mobility that many scouts look for in a young QB.
NFL.com compares Petty to St. Louis Rams quarterback Austin Daivs. Admittedly, that isn't the most favorable of comparisons. But going to New Orleans with Payton's offensive prowess is a dream come true for QB prospects. We'll have to wait until the draft to find out if it becomes a reality.
