ESPN’s Matt Miller Puts Together a Dream Draft for the Saints
The 2025 NFL Draft is right around the corner, and teams are making moves to scout their top prospects. The New Orleans Saints have been busy hosting dinners, private workouts, and getting a closer look at potential draft picks. Now, ESPN draft analyst Matt Miller has put together a full 7-round mock draft, and if it plays out like this, Saints fans should be thrilled.
Here’s a breakdown of Miller’s projected draft class for New Orleans and how each pick could make an impact.
Round 1, Pick 9 – Jahdae Barron (CB, Texas)
Some might say this pick is a bit high, but Barron brings everything you want in a cornerback. He’s got elite coverage skills, ball-hawking ability (five interceptions in 2024), and is a force in run defense. He’s also incredibly versatile lining up at corner, safety, and even in the box. With Marshon Lattimore and Paulson Adebo gone, the Saints need a new lockdown defender, and Barron fits the bill.
Round 2, Pick 40 – Quinn Ewers (QB, Texas)
This one might spark debate. Ewers has the arm talent to make big plays, but he’s struggled with consistency. His accuracy issues and tendency to leave the pocket too soon have raised concerns. But if the Saints’ coaching staff believes in him, they might take the chance and groom him into their QB of the future.
Round 3, Pick 71 – Jalen Royals (WR, Utah State)
Speed, speed, and more speed. Royals can burn defenders deep and adds another explosive element to the Saints’ receiving corps. Even though he missed much of 2024 with a foot injury, his potential is sky-high.
Round 3, Pick 93 – JT Tuimoloau (EDGE, Ohio State)
The Saints need more pass-rush help, and Tuimoloau could be the answer. He racked up 12.5 sacks last season, overpowering offensive tackles with his strength. Pairing him with Chase Young would give the Saints a dangerous pass-rushing duo.
Round 4, Pick 112 – Wyatt Milum (OT, West Virginia)
A rock-solid pick. Milum didn’t allow a single sack in his college career and could slide inside to guard if needed. His arm length is a question mark, but his power and technique make him a great value pick.
Round 4, Pick 131 – Jordan James (RB, Oregon)
This draft class is loaded with talented running backs, and James is a hidden gem. He racked up over 1,200 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns in 2024, showing great efficiency and vision. He needs to improve in pass protection, but his upside is huge.
Round 6, Pick 184 – Elijah Roberts (EDGE, SMU)
A big-bodied edge rusher (6’4”, 295 lbs) with the versatility to play all over the defensive line. Learning from a veteran like Cameron Jordan could turn him into a major contributor.
Round 7, Pick 248 – Andrew Armstrong (WR, Arkansas)
One of the biggest sleepers in the draft. Armstrong is a big-bodied receiver (6’4”) with strong hands and great jump-ball ability. Could be a steal this late.
Round 7, Pick 254 – Jacob Bayer (C, Arkansas State)
A depth pick for the offensive line. Bayer has experience at center and guard, giving the Saints some insurance behind Erik McCoy.
Final Thoughts
If this draft plays out the way Matt Miller predicts, the Saints could be in fantastic shape heading into 2025. They’d be adding defensive playmakers, explosive weapons on offense, and even a potential QB project. What do you think, Saints fans? Would you be happy with this haul?
Perfect Fit? Matt Miller’s Mock Draft Gives Saints the Roster They Need
