Archive for the ‘Beanie Wells’ Category

Draft Preview: New Orleans Saints

April 18, 2009

Pick 14: New Orleans Saints
Strengths: Passing game
Weaknesses: Toughness, pass defense

The Pick: Beanie Wells, RB, Ohio State

I think it’s been established that Reggie Bush is an offensive weapon when used in a variety of ways around the field. He is not a workhorse back who can be replied upon to carry the ball 20 times a game.

Imagine pairing Bush with a hammer like Wells, though. Beanie is a hard-hitting bell cow–that’s an element the Saints have missed since Deuce McAllister hit the downside of his gridiron career. If coach Sean Payton can arrange enough chances to get both Bush and Wells on the field at the same time, it would make a killer inside-out combo for defenses to try to stop.

Of course, Wells’ injury history at Ohio state suggests that he might have a tough time getting loads of carries for durability alone. Beanie struggled with his health throughout his time in Columbus, which seems like a sign that he’s either “injury-prone” or more interested in collecting a paycheck than competing.

I’d still say Wells is worth taking a chance, but the Saints would be justified taking a linebacker or defensive back, too.