Saints select Akiem Hicks - DT (3rd Round)

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But as an NCAA report released in July detailed (though the report does not identify parties by name), Hicks received impermissible transportation and lodging during an unofficial visit and then during the summer spent in Baton Rouge prior to enrollment, as well as a number of impermissible phone calls from then-LSU receivers coach D.J. McCarthy. While the violations would eventually cost McCarthy his job and Hicks his eligibility, the reality of Hicks' involvement was far less salacious.

The transportation included an airport pickup from an LSU student who worked in the athletic department during his visit, along with local rides from that same student and fellow athletes from an off-campus apartment to athletic facilities, a summer class at a nearby community college and in one instance, church. Since he was still technically a prospect, the rides violated NCAA bylaws.

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