Saints Draft Prospects: Versatile Georgia Bulldogs Defender Should Be A Playmaking Early Round Choice

He might not be as highly touted as recent Georgia defenders, but this Bulldogs defensive back could be a versatile playmaker.

The New Orleans Saints have had nice success with safeties through the NFL Draft. Malcolm Jenkins, a 2009 first-round pick, will eventually be in the franchise's Hall of Fame. Vonn Bell (2016) and Marcus Williams (2017) were a pair of second round choices that made huge contributions to the defense.

Chauncey Gardner-Johnson was a steal in the fourth round of the 2019 draft. Jordan Howden, a fifth-round pick last year, looks like he'll add his name to that list after a strong rookie year.
Howden is expected to start alongside veteran S Tyrann Mathieu for the New Orleans secondary this season.

However, there is little depth at the position after the release of Marcus Maye. Johnathan Abram and Ugo Amadi were re-signed, but each come with limitations.

The Georgia Bulldogs don't have as many top-tier prospects in this draft as they have in recent years, when they flooded the early rounds with picks. Here is one Georgia product that will hear their name called early on at a position of need for New Orleans.

Javon Bullard, S - Georgia; 5'11" & 198-Lbs.

Georgia Bulldogs defensive back Javon Bullard (22) breaks up a pass against the Tennessee Volunteers

Credit:© Brianna Paciorka/News Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK

Javon Bullard spurned offers from Tennessee and Auburn for the in-state Bulldogs after graduating from Baldwin High School in Georgia. He'd appear in every game as a defensive reserve in 2021 for the National Champs.

In 2022, Bullard filled up the stat sheet for the Bulldogs with seven tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, and two interceptions. He was a major key in Georgia's back-to-back title runs, getting named Defensive MVP in both their playoff semifinal and the national championship game. Bullard wasn't quite as dynamic as in 2022, but he still recorded two interceptions, broke up five passes, and had 56 total tackles last season.

A cornerback when he first got to Georgia, Bullard brings a versatile skill set into the NFL. Even while a bit undersized for the position, he can contribute in the box as well as deep coverage or in the slot. In run support, he aggressively attacks the ball and has zero hesitation when taking on blockers.
Outstanding instincts, agility, and athleticism gives Bullard terrific range as a deep safety.

He has strong route recognition and anticipation, putting Bullard constantly in position to make big plays. His ability to cover either slot or outside receivers adds tremendous versatility to a defense.

Georgia Bulldogs defensive back Javon Bullard (22) intercepts a pass against the Mississippi Rebels

Credit:© Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

Bullard's cover responsibilities are best suited to off the ball. He can struggle in man duties. Despite his range, he wasn't often used as a single-high safety at Georgia, so will have to prove that he can consistently handle those duties.

Undersized for an NFL safety, Bullard may have issues against big and athletic tight ends. His size will be a detriment in the tackle box, perhaps limiting his usage in an NFL defense.

Javon Bullard isn't as highly touted as recent Georgia Bulldog defenders. Don't make a mistake by thinking that he can't play immediately. He has the range, instincts, and playmaking skills possessed by the NFL's top safeties.

Bullard is projected to be a Day 2 pick, potentially as early as the second round. While the Saints have bigger needs they're expected to address with early picks, safety could be an underrated area of focus. Bullard would add a versatile and playmaking element to the New Orleans defense as a potential long-term starter with Howden and replacement for Tyrann Mathieu.