Our 2021 NFL draft countdown continues with a recap of the 2015 Saints draft class, which was the first year Jeff Ireland really got to work with his own scouting department after rebuilding the group. It was also the last year Rob Ryan worked as defensive coordinator for the Saints, though he split responsibilities with his eventual replacement Dennis Allen. After another historically-worst defensive effort, the pressure was on for Sean Payton to make big changes, but it took time for that to happen.
Looking back on 2016 Saints draft picks and grades
The 2016 Saints draft picks included instant impacts like Michael Thomas, though it took longer for Vonn Bell and Sheldon Rankins to start.
