With the NFL Draft just a few weeks away, the excitement and anticipation among football fans are at its peak. As teams gear up to make their picks, we at EssentiallySports have been creating one 7-round mock draft a day for all 32 NFL teams. After covering the top seven teams, it’s now time to take a closer look at the New Orleans Saints and their potential draft picks.
The Saints had a successful 2020 season, finishing with a 12-4 record and making it to the playoffs. However, they fell short in the divisional round against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. With a few key players leaving in free agency, the Saints will be looking to add depth and talent to their roster through the draft.
In the first round, with the 28th pick, we have the Saints selecting wide receiver, Rashod Bateman from the University of Minnesota. Bateman is a versatile receiver who can line up anywhere on the field and has the ability to make big plays. With Michael Thomas as the primary receiver and Emmanuel Sanders gone, Bateman will provide a much-needed boost to the Saints’ receiving corps.
Moving on to the second round, we have the Saints addressing their need for a cornerback by selecting Tyson Campbell from the University of Georgia. Campbell is a tall and physical cornerback who has the potential to become a shutdown corner in the NFL. With Janoris Jenkins now with the Tennessee Titans, Campbell will be a valuable addition to the Saints’ defense.
In the third round, the Saints add another weapon for quarterback Jameis Winston by selecting tight end Brevin Jordan from the University of Miami. Jordan is an athletic tight end who can create mismatches with his speed and route-running abilities. With Jared Cook now with the Los Angeles Chargers, Jordan will provide the Saints with a solid option at the tight end position.
Moving on to the fourth round, the Saints add depth to their offensive line by selecting Trey Smith from the University of Tennessee. Smith is a versatile lineman who can play both guard and tackle positions. With the Saints’ offensive line aging, Smith will be a valuable addition to the team.
In the fifth round, the Saints select linebacker Baron Browning from Ohio State University. Browning is a versatile linebacker who can play both inside and outside positions. With Kwon Alexander gone, Browning will provide the Saints with much-needed depth and athleticism at the linebacker position.
With their two sixth-round picks, the Saints select defensive tackle Mustafa Johnson from the University of Colorado and wide receiver Austin Watkins Jr. from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Johnson is a disruptive force on the defensive line and will provide depth behind starters David Onyemata and Malcom Brown. Watkins Jr. is a big-bodied receiver who can provide depth to the Saints’ receiving corps.
Finally, in the seventh round, the Saints select offensive tackle D’Ante Smith from East Carolina University. Smith is a raw prospect with good size and athleticism, and with some development, he could become a valuable backup for the Saints’ offensive line.
In this mock draft, the Saints addressed their needs on both sides of the ball, adding playmakers and depth to their roster. With the addition of Bateman and Jordan, the Saints’ offense will have more weapons for quarterback Jameis Winston, who will be looking to make a mark in his first season as the starter.
Overall, the Saints’ 2021 draft class has the potential to make an immediate impact and contribute to the team’s success. With a solid mix of talent and depth, the Saints are set to make another run at the playoffs and compete for the Super Bowl.
In conclusion, the NFL Draft is always an exciting time for football fans, and this year is no different. With our 7-round mock draft for the New Orleans Saints, we have highlighted potential picks that could help the team continue its success in the upcoming season. As we eagerly wait for the draft, let’s hope the Saints make the right moves and take another step towards bringing the Lombardi Trophy home.
