Saints targeting defensive line upgrades at NFL Combine

INDIANAPOLIS – As the NFL Scouting Combine workouts get under way on Thursday, the New Orleans Saints will be watching intently as they gather more information about upcoming prospects. The defensive line is certain to be a primary focus for the Saints this offseason and several players that are set to participate in drills and workouts Thursday afternoon fit the bill of what the Saints are trying to find.
In the past, the prototypes for New Orleans defensive linemen were set. The typical big-bodied build was a constant. This season, with new defensive coordinator Brandon Staley in the mix, things are sure to change up.
Look for the Saints to keep their eyes on nose tackle types and speed rusher profiles this year. Here are some of the players, among several others, that are potential matches for the team’s hunt to expand prototypes to fit new roles in the trenches.
Defensive tackles:
Michigan DT Kenneth Grant

6-foot-3
331 pounds
Career stats: 6.5 sacks, 69 total tackles (12 for a loss)
170 a-gap snaps in 2024

Toledo DT Darius Alexander

6-foot-4
305 pounds
Career stats: 9 sacks, 127 total tackles (23 for a loss)
545 b-gap snaps in 2024

Maryland DT Jordan Phillips

6-foot-2
312 pounds
Career stats: 0 sacks, 57 tackles (3 for a loss)
283 a-gap snaps in 2024

Texas DT Alfred Collins

6-foot-6
332 pounds
Career stats: 7 sacks, 141 total tackles (18 for a loss)
146 a-gap snaps in 2024

Kentucky DT Deone Walker

6-foot-7
331 pounds
Career stats: 10 sacks, 132 total tackles (23 for a loss)
143 a-gap snaps in 2024

Defensive ends:
Marshall DE Mike Green

6-foot-3
251 pounds
Career stats: 22.5 sacks (led FBS in 2024 with 17), 33 tackles for a loss, 53 hurries
20.2% pass rush win rate in 2024 (8 of 148)
- Per PFF, among EDGE with at least 250 pass rushing snaps in 2024

Update: Feb. 27, 1:25 P.M. ET – Mike Green will not participate in drills at the Combine.
Boston College DE Donovan Ezeiruaku