The first addition Brandon Staley made to his staff was hiring Terry Joseph as the New Orleans Saints pass game coordinator. Joseph comes to New Orleans from Texas. A comment made by one of his former players brings another benefit of this hire to the forefront.
Safety Jahdae Barron posted on social media that Joseph “changed his life” in response to Joseph joining the staff. This of course highlights Joseph’s coaching ability and leadership skills. It’s also a reminder of Joseph’s connection to potential NFL draft targets.
Texas provides multiple options at positions of need for New Orleans. In addition to Barron, the Longhorns have his running mate in the secondary Andrew Mubuka at safety.
Joseph worked as Texas’ secondary coach, so he’d best equipped to attest to Barron and Mukuba’s ability. With the Saints needing reinforcements in the secondary, the idea of Mukuba on Day 2 is enticing. Joseph’s stance on the Longhorn defensive backs would be valued.
Alfred Collins, Kelvin Banks and Gunnar Helm are Longhorns who could help the Saints as well. They hit needs in the trenches on both sides and tight end. Depending on the new staff’s opinion of Trevor Penning, a first round offensive tackle like Banks may be on the table.
Many think about potential free agents who may follow a coach, but coming up from the collegiate ranks has similar perks. Players can’t choose you in the way they can in free agency. Joseph can share firsthand experience with these players that would prove beneficial through the scouting process.