The New Orleans Saints did not overthink the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft. They let the draft come to them and grabbed a top twenty player in the class. Not to mention, they filled a massive hole on their roster to protect Derek Carr.
Taliese Fuaga is the first Oregon State player to be drafted in the 1st round since Brandin Cooks in 2014.
Taliese Fuaga is the first Oregon State player since Brandin Cooks (2014) to be drafted in the 1st round pic.twitter.com/tf74kEgTJg
— PFF College (@PFF_College) April 26, 2024
The selection of Fuaga was a great decision. Just like Cooks' pick in 2014, the Saints filled a massive offensive need.
Fuaga looms at 6'5 and 324 pounds. He scored a 9.63 RAS from his athletic testing. He moves well and uses unique power to move linemen out of his way. The Saints have a type, and he fits it.
Taliese Fuaga was drafted with pick 14 of round 1 in the 2024 draft class. He scored a 9.63 #RAS out of a possible 10.00. This ranked 52 out of 1377 OT from 1987 to 2024. https://t.co/rGFTHmZgh7 pic.twitter.com/O7rjhh2XXw
— Kent Lee Platte (@MathBomb) April 26, 2024
Year-on-year advancements in his play signal not just a player with the necessary physical tools, but one with the dedication and football IQ to harness his potential. His zero-sacks allowed record in recent seasons speaks to his reliability as a protector on the line. Fuaga's has potentially high-ceiling talent in the NFL. Teams seeking a blend of size, skill, and developmental upside will find Fuaga an attractive prospect, potentially slotting in as a cornerstone of their offensive line for years to come. -- NFL Draft Buzz
Taliese Fuaga in 2023:
— PFF NO Saints (@PFF_Saints) April 26, 2024
339 pass-blocking snaps
12 QB pressures allowed
0 sacks allowed
pic.twitter.com/Tc6w9gkgHp
The Saints were smart to target Fuaga. Well played by New Orleans' front office.
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