The New Orleans Saints have put a priority on covering collegiate all-star games since Jeff Ireland took over the scouting department in 2015, particularly the Reese’s Senior Bowl in Mobile, Ala. That’s resulted in three first round draft choices by New Orleans (linebacker Stephone Anthony, defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins, and defensive end Marcus Davenport) in four years.
Here’s the full list of players that the Saints added after participating in the Senior Bowl since Ireland jointed the staff:
- 2015: LB Stephone Anthony
- 2015: LB Hau’oli Kikaha
- 2015: QB Garrett Grayson
- 2015: DT Kaleb Eulls
- 2016: DT Sheldon Rankins
- 2016: OL Jack Allen
- 2017: LB Alex Anzalone
- 2017: WR Travin Dural
- 2018: DE Marcus Davenport
- 2018: WR Tre’Quan Smith
- 2018: TE Deon Yelder
Obviously, this game and its practice sessions are something that weighs into the Saints evaluation process.