Why Reuben Foster's Perceived Weakness may be His Greatest Strength

Many consider Foster to be immature, a head case, a trouble maker who makes bad choices. I suggest that you consider this:

When Foster was just an infant, his father shot and killed his mother while his mother was holding the infant Foster in her arms. Foster stills wears the wounds of that fateful day as the gunshot also grazed his back. His father went on the run from law enforcement for over 15 years before eventually being caught. Foster had to overcome a rough childhood with his mother and his father. But he did that, to become the nations #1 Linebacker prospect coming out high school and eventually signing with Alabama where he emerged as a leader and one of Saban's favorite players.

Foster also had to grow up very early. He become a father at the very early age of 15. His daughter is now 8 years old and one of Foster'a primary motivations for pursuing a professional career.

So yes. Foster has had his fair share of mistakes. But does that mean that he's not our man in this year's draft? I caution you to consider the totality of the circumstances surrounding Fosters upbringing and how that has made him into who he is today. He plays hard not just because he loves football, but because he has to. Football is all he has.

With his talent level. Foster will either beat the best front 7 player in this draft, or he will bust. There is no in between for him. With that being said, is that worth a pick for the Saints in the first round of this year's draft? I would certainly say that it is worth the risk.