NFL Mock Draft 5.0: Could Saquon Barkley fall to the Redskins at No. 13?

GLENDALE, AZ - DECEMBER 30: Running back Saquon Barkley #26 of the Penn State Nittany Lions walks on the field during the first half of the Playstation Fiesta Bowl against the Washington Huskies at University of Phoenix Stadium on December 30, 2017 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

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player. 15. . Tight End. South Carolina. Hayden Hurst. 27

The New Orleans Saints surprised a lot of people in 2017. No one knew how close they truly were to having a competitive team, but now that we know, it’s clear that the team only has a few succinct needs. One such need is tight end, and by picking South Carolina’s Hayden Hurst in the NFL Draft, they can easily fill that need.

Hurst will be 25 years old when he enters the league, but aside from that, he’s the most complete tight end prospect in this draft. Hurst offers good size at 6-foot-5, 250, and his athleticism allows him to move quicker than most at his size. He’s a technically sound blocker, and he plays with an edge, always seeking out the most yards as possible.

Hurst would be a perfect fit for the New Orleans Saints, who have all the pieces in place, save for a starting tight end. Hurst is a pro-ready prospect who can be plugged in as a top target for Drew Brees right away. For a less complete team, such a pick would be wasteful. But for the Saints, it’s the right move.

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