The New Orleans Saints are gearing up for the NFL Draft, and one of their intriguing pre-draft visits is with Maryland Terrapins offensive lineman Alan Herron. Scheduled to meet with the Saints at their Metairie headquarters on April 1, Herron is a versatile prospect who has caught the team's attention for good reason.
Over the last two years, Herron has been a stalwart at right tackle, demonstrating reliability with just five penalties and eight sacks allowed over more than 1,000 snaps. His versatility extends to the left side, making him a flexible option for any offensive line. His standout performance at the American Bowl in January earned him a spot at the prestigious Senior Bowl in February, further solidifying his draft credentials.
Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 308 pounds, Herron possesses the physical attributes necessary for an NFL lineman. With 33-inch arms, he meets the NFL's requirements for playing on the outside, yet there's potential for him to transition inside to guard. His Relative Athletic Score of 5.04 at tackle is modest, but when considered for a guard position, it jumps to an impressive 6.99.
Herron is projected to be a late-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, or he might emerge as a priority free agent if he doesn't hear his name called. This illustrates the strategic nature of the Saints' "top 30 visits." These visits aren't solely for the top players on their draft board; they're an opportunity to delve deeper into prospects who might have flown under the radar or have lingering questions, whether due to injury concerns or other factors.
These visits also serve as a recruiting tool for undrafted players, offering them a glimpse into the team's culture and potentially swaying their decision if they have multiple options. As the draft approaches, the Saints are clearly leaving no stone unturned in their quest to bolster their roster.