The New Orleans Saints are in a critical phase of roster construction as they transition into a new era under head coach Kellen Moore. While they aim to compete in the NFC South in 2025, the long-term outlook demands an infusion of young talent to sustain success.
In this post-free agency mock draft, the Saints execute a trade with the Denver Broncos, moving down from the 9th overall pick to the 20th selection in exchange for an additional second-round pick (No. 51) and a third-rounder (No. 85) in the 2025 NFL Draft. This trade aligns with the Saints’ need for more draft capital, giving them 11 total picks and a chance to address multiple positions of need. Here’s how the Saints rebuild their roster in this mock draft.
Round 1, Pick 20: Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas
Why the Saints Drafted Him:
With the departure of Marshon Lattimore, the Saints desperately need to reinforce their secondary. Jahdae Barron is a physical, instinctive corner who can play outside and in the slot. His ability to excel in man coverage and disrupt passing lanes makes him a strong fit for Brandon Staley’s defensive system.
Impact:
Barron will immediately compete for a starting job, likely replacing Paulson Adebo, who signed with the New York Giants. He joins a secondary featuring Alontae Taylor, Kool-Aid Mckinstry, and Isaac Yiadom, giving the Saints a young, athletic core at cornerback.
Round 2, Pick 40: Aireontae Ersery, OT, Minnesota
Matt Krohn-Imagn Images.
Why the Saints Drafted Him:
The Saints’ offensive line is in transition, and with Ryan Ramczyk’s knee issues and Trevor Penning’s struggles, they need reinforcements. Aireontae Ersery is a powerful tackle with the versatility to play on either side of the line. His strength and mobility make him a perfect fit for a team that wants to protect Derek Carr and improve its run game.
Impact:
Ersery can start at right tackle or provide depth at left tackle if Penning doesn’t develop. He projects as a long-term starter. Another option is to move Penning to guard and let Ersery take over at right tackle.
Related: Saints Free Agency Period Recap: Opening Week
Round 2, Pick 51 (from Denver): Jayden Higgins, WR, Iowa State
Why the Saints Drafted Him:
The Saints need more playmakers alongside Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed. Jayden Higgins is a big-bodied receiver with excellent hands and route-running ability. He offers a different skill set from the Saints’ current receivers and could be a reliable target in red-zone situations.
Impact:
Higgins adds depth to the Saints’ receiving corps and gives Derek Carr another weapon. His size and physicality make him an excellent complement to the speed of Olave and Shaheed.
Round 3, Pick 71: Ashton Gillotte, EDGE, Louisville
Why the Saints Drafted Him:
Despite re-signing Chase Young, the Saints still need to bolster their pass rush. Ashton Gillotte is an explosive-edged rusher who thrives at getting to the quarterback. His quick first step and relentless motor make him an intriguing prospect.
Impact:
Gillotte provides depth behind Carl Granderson and Chase Young while offering a long-term solution at edge rusher. He can rotate into the lineup immediately and contribute as a pass-rush specialist.
Round 3, Pick 85 (from Denver): Cameron Skattebo, RB, Arizona State
Why the Saints Drafted Him:
Alvin Kamara isn’t getting any younger, and the Saints need a tough, physical runner to complement their backfield. Cameron Skattebo is a bruising back with good vision and the ability to break tackles.
Impact:
Skattebo gives the Saints a short-yardage and goal-line option while providing depth in case of injuries. He could take over as the lead back in a year or two.
Round 3, Pick 93 (From Washington): Dylan Fairchild, OG, Georgia
Why the Saints Drafted Him:
The Saints need to revamp the interior of their offensive line. Dylan Fairchild is a technically sound guard who excels in pass protection and run blocking.
Impact:
Fairchild could compete for a starting role at either guard spot and solidify the Saints’ offensive line for the future.
Round 4, Pick 112: Tyler Shough, QB, Louisville
Photo courtesy of Getty Images.
Why the Saints Drafted Him:
Derek Carr is the starter for now, but the Saints need a young quarterback to develop. Tyler Shough has a strong arm and good mobility but needs time to refine his mechanics.
Impact:
Shough could serve as a developmental QB behind Carr and potentially compete for a backup role in the future.
Round 4, Pick 131: (From Washington) Jonas Sanker, S, Virginia
Why the Saints Drafted Him:
With Tyrann Mathieu’s aging and safety depth a concern, the Saints add Jonas Sanker. He is a physical, instinctive safety who excels in run support.
Impact:
Sanker provides depth and could develop into a starting role down the line.
Round 6, Pick 184 (From Washington): Luke Lachey, TE, Iowa
Why the Saints Drafted Him:
The Saints re-signed Juwan Johnson, but they need another receiving threat at tight end. Luke Lachey is a reliable pass catcher with good size and athleticism.
Impact:
Lachey could be a valuable red-zone target and add depth behind Johnson and Foster Moreau.
Round 7, Pick 248: LaJohntay Wester, WR, Colorado
Why the Saints Drafted Him:
Adding another receiver late in the draft is a smart move for depth. LaJohntay Wester is a speedy playmaker who can contribute to special teams and certain offensive packages.
Impact:
Wester could carve out a role as a slot receiver and return specialist.
Round 7, Pick 254: Elijah Alston, EDGE, Miami (FL)
Why the Saints Drafted Him:
Continuing to add to the pass rush, Elijah Alston is a raw but talented edge rusher with the potential to develop into a solid rotational player.
Impact:
Alston will likely compete for a spot on the practice squad or special teams while refining his technique.
Final Thoughts & Draft Grade
The Saints’ trade with Denver allowed them to add more draft capital while securing a high-quality Jahdae Barron player. They addressed key needs at cornerback, offensive line, pass rush, and wide receiver while adding a developmental quarterback.
Draft Grade: B+
While the Saints didn’t land a superstar at No. 9, they executed a smart, forward-thinking draft strategy that sets them up for short-term competition and long-term success. If these rookies develop as expected, this could be a foundational draft for the Saints’ future.
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