NFL Draft: New Orleans Saints Could Turn To College Football Powerhouse For Their Next Offensive Lineman

This standout Crimson Tide blocker has the ability to cross off a critical need for the Saints.

The New Orleans Saints traded multiple picks to obtain two choices in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft. Those picks were used on Ohio State WR Chris Olave (11th overall) and Northern Iowa OT Trevor Penning (19th).

Olave has turned out to be a terrific pickup. He's eclipsed 1,000 receiving yards in both of his seasons, combining for 159 catches, 2,165 yards, and nine touchdowns. Penning missed the first 11 games of his rookie year with a foot injury and started just one contest that season. He was handed the starting left tackle job, but was benched after six games because of poor play.

Penning's struggles have led most to believe that the Saints will again target a tackle in this year's draft. Moreover, RT Ryan Ramczyk has knee issues that have limited his mobility and casts doubt on his long-term future, and G/T Andrus Peat is currently a free agent.

Fortunately, this year's draft class of tackles looks fairly deep. Here's a closer look at one of the top players at the position from a perennial powerhouse.

JC Latham, OT, Alabama - 6'6" 342-Lbs.

Alabama offensive tackle JC Latham participates in drills during the Crimson Tide Pro Day

Credit:© Gary Cosby Jr.-Tuscaloosa News / USA TODAY NETWORK

Originally a student/athlete at Catholic Memorial High School in Wisconsin, Latham would transfer to the prestigious IMG Academy in Florida before attending Alabama. A reserve guard in 2021, he'd be the starting right tackle for the Crimson Tide over his last two years, finishing his career with a 1st Team All-SEC selection and as a 2nd Team All-American.

At first glance, Latham looks like a guard because of his build. He combines that frame with enough agility to excel as a blocker along the edge. While a move back inside is possible, most scouts project him as a tackle in the NFL.

Latham's massive frame alone can be enough to overwhelm some defenders. He combines that with a mauler demeanor and good upper body mechanics. His combination of power and foot movement makes him a formidable foe for defensive ends.

Latham gets into his pass blocking setup in an instant with a great anchor at the snap. He typically maintains that balance throughout the play while exhibiting the mobility and upper body technique to combat counter moves. His recognition of stunts and blitz pickups is excellent.

As a run blocker, Latham is a powerhouse mauler. He's a drive blocker with decisive force at the snap to open immediate holes. His formidable size and strength make it extremely difficult for defenders to disengage to get to the ball.

Alabama Crimson Tide offensive tackle JC Latham (65) pass blocks against the Vanderbilt Commodores

Credit:© Gary Cosby Jr.-USA TODAY Sports

Latham needs to do a better job at keeping his hands and arms at or inside his shoulders to avoid holding penalties. He showed improvement last year over 2022, when he drew an eye-popping 11 flags, but it's still an area of concern.

While a decent short-area athlete, Latham has yet to show that he can be an effective blocker on the move. This presents issues when he's asked to pull or be a lead blocker on screens or sweeps.
Given his size, Latham surprisingly struggles to sustain blocks at times. He's also had problems with his foot speed in pass protection with wide rush alignments.

JC Latham is projected to be a Day 1 pick, likely to come off the board anywhere between the middle and end of the first round. He may have some early issues against speed rushers but offers immediate value because of his size and power. With just a little footwork development, Latham has the upside of a Pro Bowl caliber player at right tackle.