A Disappointing Season for the Saints, but Hope Looms with a Stellar Mock Draft
The 2024 season has not gone as planned for the New Orleans Saints. Plagued by inconsistency and missed opportunities, the team finds itself sitting in 10th place and destined to finish closer to the top of the draft order. While this season has been disappointing, it presents a golden opportunity to rebuild and restock the roster with young talent. With the Saints projected to pick in the top 10, here is my favorite mock draft, one that could be a transformative gift for the organization and its loyal fanbase.
Saints Mock Draft
Round 1, Pick 10:
• Player: Will Johnson
• Position: CB
• College: Michigan
• PFF Big Board Rank: #6
• Grade: A
Will Johnson is the crown jewel of this mock draft. Widely regarded as one of the top cornerback prospects, Johnson is a rare talent with size, athleticism, and elite coverage ability. Scouts praise his instincts, ball skills, and versatility in both man and zone coverage schemes. With his physical tools and polished technique, Johnson could instantly solidify the Saints’ secondary, becoming a cornerstone of the defense for years to come.
Will Johnson, a cornerback from the University of Michigan, is widely regarded as one of the top prospects for the 2025 NFL Draft. Scouting reports from various reputable sources consistently highlight his exceptional skills and project him as a potential first-round pick.
NFL Draft Buzz assigns Johnson a rating of 89.6 out of 100, ranking him as the No. 2 cornerback prospect. They praise his “rare blend of size, athleticism, and ball skills,” noting his versatility in both man and zone coverage schemes. However, they mention areas for improvement, such as occasional over-aggressiveness and inconsistent tackling technique.
The Draft Network describes Johnson as a “No. 1 lockdown-caliber cornerback” with “great vision, instincts, and the combination of NFL size and athleticism to thrive versus high-end receivers.” They highlight his technical refinement and ball-hawking potential but note concerns regarding his consistency in locating the ball and open-field tackling.
Bleacher Report emphasizes Johnson’s “rare combination of size, length, and physicality,” projecting him as a top-10 overall pick with a grade of 8.8 out of 10, categorizing him as an “Impact Player — 1st Round.” They commend his versatility in coverage and strong tackling ability but caution about his gambler mentality, which can sometimes lead to positional lapses.
The 33rd Team compares Johnson to NFL cornerback Patrick Surtain II, labeling him an “elite prospect with the instincts and physicality to be a marquee perimeter cornerback at the NFL level.” They praise his eye discipline and coverage versatility, though they mention a regression in missed tackles during the 2024 season.
In summary, Will Johnson is highly regarded across multiple scouting platforms, with ratings placing him in the upper echelon of cornerback prospects. While he possesses exceptional physical attributes and coverage skills, scouts have identified areas for improvement, such as tackling consistency and decision-making in coverage. Nevertheless, his overall skill set and potential make him a coveted prospect for the upcoming NFL Draft.
Round 2, Pick 42:
• Player: Cam Skattebo
• Position: HB
• College: Arizona State
• PFF Big Board Rank: #48
• Grade: F
While Cam Skattebo’s selection may raise some eyebrows, the Arizona State running back offers intriguing power and short-yardage ability. His vision and toughness between the tackles are undeniable, though concerns about ball security and his lack of explosiveness make this a risky pick. If the Saints can address his weaknesses, Skattebo could carve out a role as a complementary power back.
Cam Skattebo, a running back from Arizona State, has garnered attention for his powerful running style and versatility. Scouting reports from various reputable sources provide insights into his strengths and areas for improvement.
NFL Draft Buzz assigns Skattebo an overall rating of 82.4 out of 100, ranking him as the 21st running back prospect. They highlight his impressive power, vision, and contact balance, noting his ability to push the pile and convert short-yardage opportunities. However, they express concerns about his ball security, citing ten fumbles over the past three seasons, and his lack of open-field explosiveness.
If they saw this after his game against Texas, I’m sure this evaluation would change.
The 33rd Team offers a grade of 73.5 out of 100, equating to a fourth-round value. They commend his bruising running style, vision, and short-area power, comparing him to former NFL running back BenJarvus Green-Ellis. Nonetheless, they point out inconsistencies in pass protection and ball security issues, with ten credited fumbles since 2022.
NFL Draft Diamonds describes Skattebo as a versatile player with good vision and patience. They note his solid lateral mobility and ability to shift between tackles but mention that his acceleration and top-end speed are limited. They also highlight his versatility, having lined up at multiple positions, including running back, wide receiver, quarterback, tight end, and punter.
The Draft Network emphasizes Skattebo’s bruising running style and versatility as a pass-catcher, noting his ability to impact games in multiple phases. They mention his physicality, vision, and deceptive burst but also point out concerns regarding ball security, with ten fumbles over the last two seasons.
WalterFootball reports that Skattebo has excellent contact balance, vision, cutting ability, and good instincts. They note that he is not overwhelmingly fast or strong, which might limit him from becoming a three-down starter in the NFL. They suggest he could be a good No. 2 back and a nice player in a passing-driven offense.
In summary, Cam Skattebo is viewed as a strong, versatile running back with notable power and vision. Concerns about his ball security and limited top-end speed are common among scouts. His ratings range from approximately 73.5 to 82.4 out of 100, suggesting he is projected to be a mid to late-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Round 3, Pick 74:
• Player: Tez Johnson
• Position: WR
• College: Oregon
• PFF Big Board Rank: #78
• Grade: C+
Tez Johnson brings speed, quickness, and exceptional route-running to the Saints’ offense. A dynamic slot receiver, Johnson excels in creating separation and gaining yards after the catch. While his smaller frame may limit his role to the slot, his ability to challenge defenses with sudden breaks and agility makes him a valuable addition to the passing game.
Tez Johnson, a wide receiver from the University of Oregon, is recognized for his quickness, agility, and playmaking abilities, particularly as a slot receiver. Scouting reports from various reputable sources provide insights into his strengths and areas for improvement.
NFL Draft Buzz assigns Johnson an overall rating of 83.6 out of 100, ranking him as the 10th wide receiver prospect. They highlight his elite burst, exceptional route-running, and ability to separate from defenders. His versatility in the slot and capability as a deep threat are noted, along with his impressive body control and ball-tracking skills. However, concerns are raised about his size (5’10”, 160 lbs), potential durability issues, and struggles against press coverage.
The Draft Network describes Johnson as a “twitched-up run-after-catch slot receiver” with strong route-running skills and the ability to make defenders miss in open space. They commend his quick processing and option route execution. However, they note his thin frame, inconsistent hands, and challenges against physical defenders as areas needing improvement.
Bleacher Report emphasizes Johnson’s quick-twitch movements and dynamic run-after-catch ability. They note his football IQ and coverage recognition, making him effective in short and underneath routes. Concerns include his limited size, which may restrict him to a slot-only role, and inconsistent hands leading to a high drop percentage.
The 33rd Team compares Johnson to NFL receiver Tank Dell, highlighting his electric playmaking from the slot position. They praise his quickness, agility, and open-field speed, which make him a threat on all three levels of the field. However, they mention his diminutive stature as a limitation in perimeter roles and run-blocking situations.
Pro Football Network notes Johnson’s elite speed, burst, agility, and fluidity, making him a dynamic threat with the ball in his hands. They highlight his ability to separate from defenders and create yards after the catch. However, his underweight frame and average length are cited as concerns, potentially impacting his play strength and catch radius in contested situations.
In summary, Tez Johnson is viewed as a dynamic slot receiver with exceptional speed, agility, and route-running capabilities. His ability to create separation and gain yards after the catch stands out. However, his smaller stature and inconsistent hands are noted concerns. His ratings range from approximately 73.5 to 83.6 out of 100, suggesting he is projected to be a mid-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Round 3, Pick 90:
• Player: Nick Emmanwori
• Position: S
• College: South Carolina
• PFF Big Board Rank: #80
• Grade: B+
Nick Emmanwori is a versatile safety with the size, speed, and instincts to play multiple roles in the secondary. Known for his elite tackling ability and coverage skills, Emmanwori could be a strong complement to the Saints’ defensive backfield. While some refinement is needed in zone coverage, his physical tools and playmaking ability are undeniable assets.
Nick Emmanwori, a safety from the University of South Carolina, is recognized for his exceptional physical attributes and versatility in the secondary. Standing at 6’3” and weighing 225 pounds, he combines size, speed, and athleticism, making him a compelling prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft.
NFL Draft Buzz assigns Emmanwori an overall rating of 88.5 out of 100, ranking him as the top safety prospect. They highlight his exceptional size-speed combination, versatility in playing both safety and nickel positions, elite tackling ability, and impressive ball skills, noting his 4.38-second 40-yard dash time. However, they mention areas for improvement, including refining zone coverage skills and managing occasional over-aggressiveness.
The Draft Network describes Emmanwori as an alignment-versatile safety with ideal length and playmaking abilities. They praise his high football IQ and understanding of route concepts. Concerns include tackling efficiency, urgency as a run defender, and hip fluidity in short-area movements.
Bleacher Report projects Emmanwori as an early-round pick with the potential to become a highly versatile defender, particularly in run-heavy defensive schemes or as a hybrid safety-linebacker. They commend his powerful tackling and ability to limit yards after contact. However, they note that his narrowed vision can lead to missed plays, and he sometimes struggles to adjust his angles on the edge, allowing ball-carriers to escape contain.
The 33rd Team compares Emmanwori to former NFL safety T.J. McDonald, highlighting his supersized frame, good straight-line burst, and explosive hitting power. They note his productivity in coverage despite some transition limitations, suggesting he may not consistently play as a deep safety at the NFL level.
FanSided provides a comprehensive scouting report, noting Emmanwori’s rising status as a prospect. They emphasize his strengths, including his physicality and versatility, while also discussing potential areas for development to enhance his draft stock.
In summary, Nick Emmanwori is viewed as a top safety prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft, with ratings placing him in the upper echelon of his position. His combination of size, speed, and versatility makes him a valuable asset, though refinement in certain technical aspects could further elevate his game.
Round 4, Pick 111:
• Player: Carson Beck
• Position: QB
• College: Georgia
• PFF Big Board Rank: #107
• Grade: B
Carson Beck offers the Saints a high-upside developmental quarterback option. Standing at 6’4”, Beck has the size, arm strength, and accuracy to compete at the next level. While his decision-making under pressure and deep-ball consistency need improvement, Beck could benefit from sitting behind a veteran quarterback before taking the reins.
Carson Beck, a quarterback from the University of Georgia, has been a prominent figure in college football, showcasing notable skills and facing challenges during his tenure. Standing at 6’4” and weighing 220 pounds, Beck possesses the prototypical size for an NFL quarterback.
NFL Draft Buzz assigns Beck an overall rating of 83.5 out of 100, ranking him as the 5th quarterback prospect. They highlight his quick release, good throwing mechanics, and accuracy on short and intermediate throws. However, they note concerns about his decision-making under pressure and deep-ball accuracy.
The Draft Network describes Beck as a high-IQ quarterback who relies on accuracy and ball placement to be an efficient passer. They praise his quick release and good throwing mechanics but express concerns about his decision-making under pressure and deep-ball accuracy.
Bleacher Report emphasizes Beck’s talent as a pocket-passing quarterback with enough mobility to avoid being labeled a statue. They note that when allowed to throw with timing and rhythm, Beck can make defenses pay. However, they mention that his passes lose steam, and his accuracy worsens when under pressure.
The 33rd Team compares Beck to NFL quarterback Derek Carr, highlighting his effectiveness when throwing with anticipation and his active presence pre-snap. They note his good velocity on throws and capability of hitting tight window throws down the field. However, they mention struggles with precision accuracy and turnovers due to subpar placement at the catch point.
Pro Football Network notes Beck’s arm talent and potential to be a high-level draft prospect. They highlight his ability to operate within structure and attack middle-of-field windows. However, they express concerns about his deep-ball accuracy and decision-making under pressure.
WalterFootball reports that Beck has quick feet and a speedy throwing motion, with good accuracy on short and intermediate throws. They note his ability to process quickly when making multiple reads but mention struggles to sense pressure and find an escape plan as the pocket collapses.
In summary, Carson Beck is viewed as a talented pocket-passing quarterback with good size, arm strength, and accuracy, particularly in short to intermediate throws. Concerns about his decision-making under pressure, deep-ball accuracy, and recent injury may impact his draft stock. His ratings range from approximately 83.5 to 85.1 out of 100, suggesting he is projected to be a mid-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Round 4, Pick 127:
• Player: Emery Jones Jr.
• Position: T
• College: LSU
• PFF Big Board Rank: #146
• Grade: C-
Emery Jones Jr. is a big-bodied offensive lineman with strength and physicality. He thrives in the run game, where he can use his powerful frame to displace defenders. However, his footwork and balance in pass protection need refinement. Jones projects as a guard in the NFL and could provide depth and developmental potential for the Saints’ offensive line.
Emery Jones Jr., an offensive lineman from Louisiana State University (LSU), stands at 6’6” and weighs 322 pounds, bringing notable size and strength to the field. His performance has garnered attention from various scouting platforms, each highlighting his strengths and areas for improvement.
The Draft Network assigns Jones a rating of 82.4 out of 100, projecting him as a Day 2 pick and a potential starting guard in the NFL. They commend his patience, deliberate play, strong hands, and finishing ability in the run game. However, they note concerns regarding his ability to redirect fluidly, occasional loss of balance, and tendency to play out of control at times.
NFL Draft Buzz rates Jones at 82.4 out of 100, ranking him as the 32nd overall prospect. They highlight his exceptional flexibility, anchor strength, and ability to handle top edge rushers, noting his significant role in LSU’s offensive line success. Concerns include susceptibility to elite speed rushers, occasional high sets compromising power, and the need to refine footwork and hand placement.
Pro Football Network describes Jones as having a near-elite size profile with exceptional height, mass, and overwhelming length. They praise his agility, lateral mobility, and raw strength, projecting him as an early-to-mid Round 1 prospect with the potential to excel in both pass protection and run blocking. However, they mention the need for refinement in his technique to address occasional balance issues.
WalterFootball notes Jones’s big frame, strength, and physical demeanor, emphasizing his mean streak and ability to finish defenders with physicality. They express concerns about his pass protection, particularly his balance and tendency to get off-balance against speed rushers, suggesting a potential move to guard at the NFL level.
Bleacher Report highlights Jones’s good play strength, length, and ability to uproot and displace defenders in the run game. They note his upright play style and marginal footwork, leading to balance issues and challenges against quick defenders, raising questions about his range to protect the corner against wide-rush alignments.
In summary, Emery Jones Jr. is recognized for his impressive physical attributes, strength, and potential as an offensive lineman. While his run-blocking prowess and physicality are notable strengths, concerns about balance, footwork, and pass protection suggest that a transition to guard may be beneficial at the professional level. His ratings, ranging from approximately 82.4 to 85.1 out of 100, indicate a projection as a Day 2 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Round 6, Pick 184:
• Player: Jailin Walker
• Position: LB
• College: Indiana
• PFF Big Board Rank: #211
• Grade: D-
Jailin Walker brings athleticism and versatility but lacks the polish and consistency needed to make an immediate impact. His tackling and instincts need development, but his athletic tools give him a chance to contribute on special teams while he refines his game.
Jailin Walker, a linebacker from Indiana University, has garnered attention for his athleticism and playmaking abilities. Standing at 6’1” and weighing 218 pounds, Walker has demonstrated versatility and effectiveness on the field.
Draft Scout notes that Walker earned All-Sun Belt Conference Honorable Mention in 2022, recording 63 tackles, 3.0 tackles for loss, 1.0 sack, three interceptions, and five pass breakups in 10 starts.
The Daily Hoosier reports that ESPN’s Matt Miller projects Walker as a potential seventh-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, indicating that he is on the radar of NFL scouts.
NFL Mock Draft Database lists Walker as a 2025 draft prospect, though specific rankings and evaluations are limited at this time.
In summary, Jailin Walker is recognized for his contributions at Indiana University, with notable statistics and conference honors. While detailed scouting reports are currently limited, his projected late-round selection suggests that he is considered a developmental prospect with potential to contribute at the professional level.
Round 6, Pick 200:
• Player: Aaron Smith
• Position: LB
• College: South Carolina State
• PFF Big Board Rank: #226
• Grade: D
Aaron Smith is an intriguing prospect with speed and instincts but faces an uphill climb to secure a significant role. His size and struggles in shedding blocks limit his effectiveness in the box, though his versatility and special teams potential offer some value.
Aaron Smith, a linebacker from South Carolina State University, has garnered attention for his athleticism and playmaking abilities. Standing at 6’2” and weighing 230 pounds, Smith has been a pivotal figure in the Bulldogs’ defense.
NFL Draft Diamonds highlights Smith’s sideline-to-sideline playmaking ability and leadership qualities. Smith emphasizes his adaptability, having learned three different defensive schemes under three coaches in as many years.
The 33rd Team projects Smith as a mid-Day 3 pick, noting his status as a “ferocious run-and-hit linebacker” with NFL-caliber speed. They compare him to former South Carolina State standout Shaquille Leonard, suggesting Smith could follow a similar path to the NFL.
Sports Illustrated ranks Smith among the top HBCU prospects for the 2025 NFL Draft, citing his instinctive play, quick reactions, and lateral speed. They note his proficiency in blitzing and coverage, though they mention challenges with block disengagement and physicality.
South Carolina State Athletics reports that Smith received an invitation to the East-West Shrine Bowl, underscoring his recognition as a top HBCU pro prospect. His speed and football intelligence are highlighted as key attributes contributing to his success.
In summary, Aaron Smith is regarded as a dynamic linebacker with notable speed, adaptability, and leadership. His recognition by various scouting platforms and invitation to a prestigious all-star game suggest he is a promising prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft, with projections placing him in the mid-to-late rounds.
Round 7, Pick 253:
• Player: Jimmy Horn Jr.
• Position: WR
• College: Colorado
• PFF Big Board Rank: #254
• Grade: C+
Jimmy Horn Jr. is a speedy slot receiver with explosive playmaking ability. His agility and run-after-catch potential make him a threat in the open field, though his small frame and limited physicality raise concerns about his ability to handle the rigors of the NFL. Horn could carve out a role as a dynamic depth receiver and return specialist.
Jimmy Horn Jr., a wide receiver from the University of Colorado, is recognized for his exceptional speed and agility, making him a dynamic threat in the slot and on special teams. Standing at 5’10” and weighing 170 pounds, Horn Jr. has demonstrated significant playmaking abilities throughout his collegiate career.
NFL Draft Buzz assigns Horn Jr. an overall rating of 78.9 out of 100, ranking him as the 35th wide receiver prospect. They highlight his elite straight-line speed and acceleration, advanced route-running skills, and proficiency in finding soft spots against zone coverage. However, they note concerns regarding his limited frame, struggles against physical press coverage, and inconsistent hand strength in contested situations.
The 33rd Team emphasizes Horn Jr.’s electric open-field speed and ball-tracking ability, projecting him as a slot-exclusive player with significant value in spread offenses. They compare him to NFL receiver Derius Davis, noting his potential to impact both the passing game and special teams.
The Draft Network describes Horn Jr. as an impactful slot weapon who utilizes sudden breaks and speed to challenge defenses. They commend his route-running prowess and ability to decelerate effectively but express concerns about his physicality, frame, and occasional concentration drops.
NFL Draft Diamonds highlights Horn Jr.’s explosive speed and ability to stretch defenses vertically. They note his effectiveness in the slot and potential as a return specialist, while mentioning areas for improvement in physicality and consistency.
DraftScout reports that Horn Jr. possesses elite speed, with a 40-yard dash time ranging between 4.24 and 4.40 seconds. They acknowledge his versatility as a receiver and returner but indicate that his size may limit his role to the slot at the professional level.
In summary, Jimmy Horn Jr. is viewed as a highly athletic and speedy slot receiver with significant potential to contribute in the NFL, particularly in offenses that emphasize quick passes and spread concepts. His ability to create separation and serve as a return specialist adds to his value. However, concerns about his size, physicality, and consistency in contested situations may impact his draft stock. His ratings suggest he is projected to be a mid-to-late-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Conclusion
While the Saints’ 2024 season has fallen far short of expectations, this mock draft offers hope for the future. Featuring a mix of high-end talent like Will Johnson and developmental prospects like Carson Beck and Emery Jones Jr., this draft could be a game-changer for the organization. For Saints fans everywhere, this mock draft represents a potential turning point as the team looks to bounce back in 2025 and beyond.
