Saints NFL draft target Johnny Newton receives great news just weeks before first round

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Adam Holt | Last updated 4/16/24

The New Orleans Saints need help in the trenches, both offensively and defensively. One big ten prospect has been mocked to them in both the first and second round via different sources. The Saints attended his Pro Day on Tuesday.

Illinois DL Johnny Newton looks fully healthy ahead of the draft.

Illinois DT Johnny Newton, a projected 1st-round pick, just wrapped up an impressive Pro Day — showcasing elite explosion and power after a Jones fracture that he’s fully healed from.

I’m told the following teams were in attendance, among others:

Bills
Cowboys
49ers
Jets… pic.twitter.com/ggMIiIBkub
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) April 16, 2024

Newton's injury has made some folks about timid about his projection, but his athleticism and strength are among the best in the class. Before the injury news, he was widely expected to be a top fifteen pick.

If Johnny Newton is on the board at 37 I am SPRINTING to the podium. Unless the foot injury is that bad I just cannot understand how this guy isn’t a consensus top 15 pick. https://t.co/fuR82Afwcc
— Steven Haglund (@StevenIHaglund) April 16, 2024

Now, he could slip all the way into the middle of round two.

For New Orleans, they need more DL depth, especially inside after adding pass rusher Chase Young. Bryan Bresee flashed last season but is still a work in progress, overall.

Khalen Saunders is a good veteran presence but does not provide the pass rush ability of Newton or Bresee. The Saints must create more pressure on passers in 2024.

Newton, or a prospect like Byron Young, would immediately help in that regard if they go that route early in this year's draft.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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