Saints give up 2020 2nd-rounder to move up for Erik McCoy
The New Orleans Saints selected center Erik McCoy out of Texas A&M with the 48th overall pick of the 2019 NFL Draft.
The Saints made a big leap to grab the offensive lineman, giving up a 2020 second-rounder to move up 14 spots.
Dolphins trade: Pick 48, 116.
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) April 27, 2019
Saints trade: Pick 62, 202 and a 2020 second round pick.
New Orleans was blindsided by the retirement of Max Unger this offseason. The team opted to bring in Nick Easton on a four-year deal but can get out of the contract after a year, so a long-term option was needed.
Prospect profile
School: Texas A&M
Height: 6-4
Weight: 303 lbs
Strengths
- Excellent blocker in space, dangerous when charging at defenders
- Very balanced at point of attack and doesn't get beat by bull rush
- Had great games versus Alabama and Clemson during college career
- Able to immediately set himself in pass protection, leads to early advantage/leverage
- Excellent recovery when losing initial step
Weaknesses
- Hasn't shown dominance in run blocking
- Can be beaten by long-armed defensive tackles
- Not the most fluid athlete
- Punch/striking needs improvement
Bottom line
McCoy is an experienced center prospect who thrives in space and pass protection. He has a high football IQ despite his age (21) and has displayed enough strength and body control to thrive in the trenches. McCoy lacks functional athleticism but profiles as an ideal zone-blocking center in the NFL.