NFL draft analyst Luke Easterling just dropped his latest four-round mock draft, and the Saints’ picks have a strong SEC flavor. Here’s how he sees things shaking out for New Orleans:
Luke Easterling’s 4-Round Saints Mock Draft
Round 1 (9th overall): Shemar Stewart, EDGE, Texas A&M
Round 2 (40th overall): Maxwell Hairston, CB, Kentucky
Round 3 (71st overall): Jaylin Noel, WR, Iowa State
Round 3 (93rd overall): Gunnar Helm, TE, Texas
Round 4 (112th overall): Quinn Ewers, QB, Texas
Round 4 (131st overall): JJ Pegues, DL, Mississippi
Easterling sees Stewart as a future replacement for veteran Cam Jordan, though some scouts are split on him due to his limited college production. His rare mix of size and athleticism, however, could make him worth the gamble.
Cornerback remains a need for New Orleans, making Hairston an intriguing choice. He’s been climbing draft boards, but teams are reportedly doing their homework on some off-the-field concerns.
With Brandin Cooks recently joining the roster, wide receiver depth isn’t a top priority, but grabbing a solid prospect like Jaylin Noel wouldn’t hurt—especially since Rashid Shaheed and Chris Olave hit free agency after the season.
Tight end is another position the Saints could address, and Easterling likes Gunnar Helm as a high-upside pick in the third round.
And then there’s the ongoing quarterback debate. The Saints are sticking with Derek Carr for 2025, but what happens after that? Quinn Ewers could be a future option, but it all depends on how offensive coordinator Kellen Moore sees the position shaking out.
With six picks in the top 150, New Orleans has plenty of chances to shape its roster. Let’s see how it all plays out on draft day!
