In a recent publication on ESPN+, NFL Draft Analyst Matt Miller provided a comprehensive 7-round mock draft for all 32 NFL teams. Among those scrutinized is the New Orleans Saints, a team that’s become a focal point for fans and analysts alike as the draft approaches. The purpose of today’s post is to delve into the selections Miller has projected for the Saints in his extensive analysis. It’s an intriguing draft strategy for New Orleans, which holds nine picks in this year’s event. Notably, the Saints boast an unusual distribution of picks, with four selections in the fifth round but conspicuously absent any picks in the third or fourth rounds. This unique setup prompts a deeper look into how these choices align with the team’s needs and their potential impact on the Saints’ future roster.
Taliese Fuaga: OT, Oregon State (14)
With the New Orleans Saints sitting at the 14th pick in the upcoming NFL Draft, the team faces a crucial decision that could significantly shape its future. The recent troubling news regarding right tackle Ryan Ramczyk’s degenerative knee condition, reportedly not healing as anticipated, has cast a shadow over his availability for the upcoming season. This development, coupled with the lingering uncertainties surrounding Trevor Penning, the team’s first-round pick from 2022, who was benched due to poor performance, has amplified the need for a reliable offensive lineman. Enter Taliese Fuaga from Oregon State, a prospect whose drafting seems logical and necessary for the Saints.
Fuaga’s collegiate career has been nothing short of impressive. Over the past two years, he has started 25 games at right tackle and has been a bulwark in pass protection, allowing just a single sack. This statistic is a testament to his skill, consistency, and reliability — qualities that the Saints’ offensive line desperately needs. His performance has showcased his ability to dominate in the collegiate arena and hinted at his potential to excel professionally.
One of the most compelling aspects of Fuaga’s game is his mobility and agility. In the NFL, adapting and transitioning is crucial, and Fuaga’s athleticism suggests he possesses the versatility to shift to the left side if required. This flexibility is precious to the Saints, who are in a precarious situation with their current linemen. Ramczyk’s uncertain future and Penning’s underwhelming start have left a gaping hole in their offensive line, one that Fuaga seems well-equipped to fill.
Roman Wilson: WR, Michigan (45)
So, Miller thinks the Saints should select a wide receiver at 14. The guy he has going to New Orleans at 45 is Michigan wideout Roman Wilson. According to Miller’s analysis, Wilson is touted as one of the best route runners in this year’s wide receiver class and came immediately to replace the presence of former Saints Michael Thomas. Wilson does not have to be the next Michael Thomas; he must be reliable.
Isaiah Adams: G, Illinois (150)
Drafting a guard in the fifth round makes a lot of sense. The Saints currently have Cesar Ruiz, Nick Saldiveri, and James Hurst at the guard position. If Adams has what it takes at the next level to contribute, he could challenge players like Hurst or Saldiveri for a role on the current team. Adams is also a player that the Saints could utilize in various positions on the offensive line. In his 12 starts with the Illini, Adams played ten games at right tackle and two at guard.
Johnny Dixon: CB, Penn State (168)
With the second selection in the fifth round, the Saints attempt to add another contributor to the secondary when they Penn State corner Johnny Dixon. After the departure of standout corner Isaich Yiadom, the Saints need reinforcements at the position. All signs have pointed to Marshon Lattimore returning next season, but it’s a 50/50 proposition. This is where the selection of Dixon would come into play. He has some scheme versatility, and the run defense is needed to provide good depth. In passing situations, Dixon excels in press-man coverage. If Lattimore is traded, third-year corner Alontae Taylor could be moved back to the boundary role while Dixon becomes the slot corner.
Devin Leary: QB, Kentucky (170)
The Saints must continue adding quality depth to their quarterback position as Derek Carr maintains his starting role. Fresno State’s Jake Haener was selected in the fourth round in last year’s draft. In 2024, Miller has the Saints taking a familiar route in the later rounds with the selection of Kentucky’s Devin Leary.
Tyrone Tracy: RB, Purdue (175)
Would the late-round selection of Purdue running back Tyrone Tracy signify that Jamaal Williams could be on the bubble heading into training camp? It’s highly possible the former Detroit Lion failed to replicate his productive season during his first year with the Saints. Tracy is younger and has a more versatile skillset as a running back.
Jahiem Bell: TE, Florida State (190)
Selecting tight end Jahiem Bell in the sixth round would be a sneaky good pickup for the Saints. In his final season with Florida State, Bell caught 39 passes for 503 yards and two touchdowns. Listed at 6’3, 239 pounds, Bell’s frame is undersized for a traditional tight-end pedigree, but don’t let that fool you. Bell is proficient in the short to intermediate passing game and can also be utilized in screen scenarios.
Jaylen Harrell: DE, Michigan (199)
Every option needs to be on the table if Chase Young is not fully recovered from a medical procedure done on his neck in March. It would be difficult to know what type of production the Saints will get out of an edge rusher in the sixth round, but they must utilize all available routes.
JD Bertrand: LB, Notre Dame (239)
With the Saints’ last pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, Miller projects that New Orleans should add another linebacker to an already crowded room. They recently signed former Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Willie Gay as a potential starter next to Demario Davis. According to head coach Dennis Allen, Gay and Pete Warner are expected to compete for the starting role during training camp. The only way that Notre Dame’s JDame’srand may be able to contribute to the Saints is by special teams.
