Kevin Mock 3.0: High Risk High Reward Saints Options
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In this high-stakes edition of Saints Happy Hour, host Rob Marlborough tasks draft expert Kevin Thomas with running a 'high risk, high reward' mock draft, challenging him to prioritize players with significant red flags despite their potential. Kevin delivers a bold, aggressive strategy, trading down from pick 8 to secure five picks in the top 75, focusing on defensive needs with selections like Caden McDonald (Ohio State), Brandon Sissy (South Carolina), Derek Moore (Michigan), Danny Dennis Sutton (Penn State), and Elijah Surratt (Indiana). The picks emphasize traits over polish, targeting players with injury histories, subpar measurables, or incomplete combine data—yet all possess compelling intangibles or production. The second half of the draft sees a drop in confidence, with picks like Emmitt Johnson, Jack Andres, Jeremiah Wright, Jalen Stroman, and Jack Kelly raising concerns about physical limitations and risk. Despite the uneven quality, Rob praises the draft’s long-term vision and defensive focus, calling it a 'top-heavy' success. The episode ends with a strong call to action for Patreon support and anticipation for the upcoming real draft.
Prioritize high-risk, high-reward players with measurable flaws but strong traits or production.
Trading down can increase draft capital and allow for multiple impactful selections.
Defensive depth, especially on the interior line and at corner, should be a top priority for the Saints.
Physical limitations like short arms, poor hand size, or injury history don’t disqualify players if they show elite production or intangibles.
Special teams potential can be a pathway for late-round, high-risk picks to make the roster.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Sponsor Intro: Hardhide Ponchatoula Strawberry Whiskey
Rob Marlborough opens the episode with a promotional segment for Hardhide Ponchatoula Strawberry Whiskey, highlighting its Louisiana roots, 86 proof, and support for Saints Happy Hour throughout the football season.
The High-Risk Mock Draft Challenge
“I want you to take a high-risk player, find somebody you like. That's anathema to me.”
Kevin’s Trade-Down Strategy and First Four Picks
“If they somehow traded back into the late first round and wound up with Caden McDonald, I would be happy with that.”
Evaluating Risk: Traits vs. Production
Rob and Kevin debate the balance between traits (size, speed) and production (stats, consistency). Kevin leans toward production and 'vibes,' while Rob emphasizes the importance of physical tools, especially in high-impact positions like corner and edge.
Offensive Picks and the Surratt Debate
“I don’t know that Surratt is going to give you explosive play. I feel like Surratt is just going to be a dependable... chain mover.”
“You're doing 60 to 70 car crashes a week, right? You got to love it.”
“This mock draft is kind of how I like my women. Top heavy.”
“If they somehow traded back into the late first round and wound up with Caden McDonald, I would be happy with that.”
Hosts
Guest
Kevin Thomas
person
Rob Marlborough
person
Caden McDonald
person
Elijah Surratt
person
Saints Happy Hour
organization
Danny Dennis Sutton
person
Brandon Sissy
person
Derek Moore
person
Ralph Malbro
person
Emmitt Johnson
person
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