2011 NFL Draft Results: Did the Saints Draft Make Them NFC Super Bowl Favorite?

2011 NFL Draft Results in Major Upgrade In New Orleans

1st: Cameron Jordan (DE) California
1st: Mark Ingram (RB) Alabama
3rd: Martez Wilson (OLB) Illinois
3rd: Johnny Patrick (CB) Louisville
7th: Greg Romeus (DE) Pittsburgh

A year ago the New Orleans seemed, at times, to barely resemble the team that won Super Bowl XLIV.

The turnover problems that plagued Drew Brees were part of it. The injuries to the running game were another. But the defense was clearly the biggest issue.

Everything just fell into place for the Saints defense in 2009 and that was how they handled the Cardinals, Vikings, and Colts in the postseason. So maybe they just fell back down to Earth in 2010.

If that's the case, they could certainly use some answers. And they might have found them in this draft.

READ MORE: The Most Memorable Play in the History of All 32 Franchises

Forget about Mark Ingram for a minute....and the trade that cost them a first and second rounder.

Look who else they landed. Cameron Jordan might be the most complete defensive end in this draft and the Saints were extremely fortunate to see him at the 24th spot. Martez Wilson, their third rounder, might be the best inside linebacker in this draft. Greg Romeus is an absolute steal as a seventh rounder and Johnny Patrick will provide great depth along side Tracy Porter and Jabari Greer.

Those rookies will all need time to develop, but by the end of the season, if they make even slight contributions, the Saints might find themselves in their second Super Bowl in three seasons.