The New Orleans Saints made a strategic move in the NFL Draft by selecting defensive tackle Vernon Broughton from the Texas Longhorns with their first third-round pick. Broughton, standing at 6'4" and weighing 305 lbs, was a notable choice at 71st overall and the first of four consecutive defensive players drafted by the Saints. Last season, the Saints faced challenges with a defense that ranked 30th overall and 31st against the run, making Broughton's athleticism a key asset to bolster their defensive line.

During his college career, Broughton showed significant improvement. In 2023, he transitioned from a reserve player to a starter, showcasing his potential with 4 sacks and 39 total tackles. His ability to penetrate backfields, combined with good leverage, positions him as a promising interior force. With the Saints' focus on enhancing their run defense, Broughton's familiarity with defensive line coach Bo Davis, who previously coached him at Texas, may provide the necessary development to harness his talent effectively in the NFL.