The New Orleans Saints’ mock draft has stirred up excitement among fans, showcasing a blend of offensive and defensive prospects aimed at revitalizing the team’s roster. Here’s a breakdown of each pick, complete with their draft position, round, and PFF grade:
- Round 1, Pick 14: Laiaitu Latu, ED, UCLA
PFF Grade: A+
With a stellar A+ grade, Latu is expected to inject tenacity and energy into the Saints’ edge rush. His impressive skill set at UCLA hints at a future defensive cornerstone for New Orleans. - Round 2, Pick 45: Troy Franklin, WR, Oregon
PFF Grade: A
Franklin brings an A-grade potential to the receiving corps, likely to become a favorite target with his speed and route precision, giving the Saints a new offensive weapon. - Round 5, Pick 150: Mekhi Wingo, DI, LSU
PFF Grade: A-
Wingo, an A- graded pick from LSU, is a local powerhouse. His run-stopping and interior pass-rush abilities could be a game-changer for the Saints’ defensive line. - Round 5, Pick 168: Javon Foster, T, Missouri
PFF Grade: A-
Another A- talent, Foster is anticipated to fortify the offensive line, bringing much-needed protection and stability to the quarterback position. - Round 5, Pick 170: Drake Nugent, C, Michigan
PFF Grade: B-
At B-, Nugent might seem like a sleeper pick but is poised to offer depth and competition at the center, crucial for the Saints’ O-line chemistry. - Round 5, Pick 175: Jalen Sundell, T, North Dakota State
PFF Grade: B+
Sundell’s B+ grading indicates a promising addition, likely to contribute significantly to the offensive tackle spot with robust blocking skills. - Round 6, Pick 190: Anthony Gould, WR, Oregon State
PFF Grade: B
Gould could be a mid-draft gem with a B grade, bringing depth and a competitive edge to the Saints’ receiving room. - Round 6, Pick 199: Tip Reiman, TE, Illinois
PFF Grade: A-
Reiman, another A- prospect, is expected to add a new dynamic to the Saints’ tight end group with his reliable hands and versatile playmaking abilities. - Round 7, Pick 239: Taulia Tagovailoa, QB, Maryland
PFF Grade: B+
Tagovailoa may be a B+ pick, but his potential as a developmental quarterback is immense, and he could bring a spark to the Saints’ QB room.
Overall Draft Grade: A
The Saints have addressed key positions with a clear strategy, and PFF’s overall A grade reflects a draft that could be pivotal in shaping the team’s future successes. Each pick seems carefully curated to enhance both immediate impact and long-term development. Fans and analysts will have their eyes set on how these prospects will transition to the NFL, but optimism is certainly in the air for the Crescent City.
