Saints Draft Prospects: College Basketball Power Boasts One Of The Top Interior Linemen

UConn is best known as a college basketball powerhouse on both the men's and women's side. However, this Huskies offensive lineman is set to make a big impact out of the NFL Draft.

Connecticut offensive lineman Christian Haynes during drills at the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine / Credit:© Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

The University of Connecticut is a traditional NCAA basketball power on both the men's and women's side. UConn men are looking for their second straight national basketball title, sixth overall, on Monday night. Connecticut's women's basketball team made their 23rd Final Four appearance in the last 33 years this season and have won an incredible 11 national championships.

While UConn basketball invokes thoughts of dynasties, their football program is an afterthought on the national landscape. This season, however, the Huskies have a player who should hear his name called early in the 2024 NFL Draft. It's also at one of the positions of significant need for the New Orleans Saints.

Christian Haynes, G - Connecticut; 6'3" & 317-Lbs.

Connecticut offensive guard Christian Haynes (63) during practice at the 2024 Senior Bowl / Credit:© Vasha Hunt-USA TODAY Sports

A lightly recruited player out of Bowie High School in Maryland, Christian Haynes would wind up at Connecticut. After redshirting in 2018, Haynes would be the starting right guard for his final four seasons with the Huskies. (the 2020 campaign was canceled due to Covid). He'd earn back-to-back 3rd Team All-American honors to end his career at UConn.

Haynes possesses an equally impressive blend of strength, quickness, and technique. He has a strong feel for the game and offensive system; a zone blocking scheme that the Saints are expected to run this season.

As a run blocker, Haynes fires off the ball decisively and is an outstanding finisher. He maintains terrific technique as a lead blocker on pulls and screens well into the second level of the defense. Haynes sets a strong base in pass protection responsibilities. He shows agile feet and the outstanding awareness to react to stunts and blitzes.

Connecticut offensive lineman Christian Haynes (63) blocks during drills at the 2024 Senior Bowl / Credit:© Vasha Hunt-USA TODAY Sports

Haynes has just average length and shorter arms for the position. He can get a little grabby and draw penalties, especially in lateral reactions on passing plays. While technically sound, there is some question about Haynes' range as a run blocker and how quickly he'll be able to get outside.

Perceived lack of competition was a concern, but Haynes performed well at Senior Bowl workouts. Doing so likely solidified his position as an early draft pick and increased the belief that he could earn a starting role early in his career.

Christian Haynes will be one of the first interior blockers drafted and may even be snatched up late in the first round. He'd not only fill one of the Saints' major needs but also comes from a blocking scheme that new offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak is expected to employ.

Most expect New Orleans to draft an offensive tackle with their first round choice, the 14th overall selection. Some even expect the Saints to double up with offensive line in the second round, where they hold the 45th overall pick. If so, Christian Haynes could be a viable target if still on the board.