As the evaluation process unfolded in the weeks leading up to the 2011 NFL Draft, the stock of Alabama RB Mark Ingram was a consistent source of debate.

Many held the opinion Ingram would slide completely out of the first round, if not because of his talent or production, then because of the fading value of running backs in the draft. Others felt that diminished value at the position actually made Ingram underrated. His supporters felt Ingram was NFL-ready.

We know it takes only one team to believe, and the Saints traded up to the No. 28 spot to take Ingram, a move Gil Brandt believes will prove to be one of the steals of the entire draft.

“History will show Ingram to be one of the steals of the draft,” Brandt said during his weekly live chat. “I think of him in relation to Emmitt Smith in terms of style, and I think he’ll be a successful running back for the Saints. He’s got great character, and that is a big success factor as well.”

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