As the Saints’ 2024 season teeters on the brink of irrelevance, it’s time to shift focus toward building for the future. Sunday’s defeat to the Washington Commanders marked the end of the team’s last gasp at playoff contention. While the new leadership’s draft philosophy remains uncertain, it’s clear that addressing the trenches, skill positions, and long-term depth will be crucial. Here’s an early four-round mock draft designed to address key areas of need.
1st Round: Mykel Williams, DE, Georgia
The Saints’ defensive line has been a glaring weakness this season, with opposing offenses consistently dominating the trenches. This issue is not new; it’s been a lingering problem over the past two seasons. Enter Georgia’s Mykel Williams, a dynamic edge rusher with a blend of power, speed, and technique that makes him one of the top defensive prospects in the draft. Williams would bring youth and fresh energy to a position group in desperate need of rebuilding. His ability to pressure quarterbacks and set the edge in the run game could help transform a unit that has failed to deliver consistent results.
2nd Round: Tate Ratledge, OG, Georgia
Regardless of whether Derek Carr or another quarterback is under center in 2025, shoring up the offensive line must be a top priority. With the second-round selection, the Saints return to Athens to grab Tate Ratledge, a powerful and experienced guard. Ratledge has excelled as a three-year starter at Georgia, primarily on the right side of the line. Adding Ratledge to a nucleus that includes Taliese Fuaga and Trevor Penning could provide stability and pave the way for a dominant interior line. His ability to excel in run-blocking and pass-protection makes him an ideal fit for a Saints offense looking to regain its identity.
3rd Round: Ollie Gordon, RB, Oklahoma State
While Alvin Kamara continues to defy age and remains productive, the looming reality of his eventual decline cannot be ignored. Despite his potential, Kendre Miller has struggled with injuries, leaving the Saints’ future at running back uncertain. Enter Ollie Gordon, the 2023 Doak Walker Award winner, who rushed for over 1,600 yards and scored 20 touchdowns. At 6’0”, 225 pounds, Gordon is a big, physical back who thrives in downhill running schemes. His reliable hands also make him a valuable asset in the passing game. Gordon could serve as a perfect complement to Kamara in the short term while offering long-term stability.
Related: Saints 2025 Early 3-Round Mock Draft
3rd Round: Mason Taylor, TE, LSU
In recent years, the Saints’ tight end position has lacked consistency and explosiveness. Mason Taylor, a standout from LSU, brings a balanced skill set as both a blocker and a receiver. Taylor has the ability to stretch the middle of the field, creating mismatches with his size (6’5”, 250 pounds) and athleticism. His experience in the SEC against elite defenses makes him NFL-ready, and he could become a reliable target for whoever is under center. With Taylor, the Saints would have a tight end capable of contributing immediately while offering significant upside for the future.
4th Round: Dillon Gabriel, QB, Oregon
Photo courtesy of USA Today.
Dillon Gabriel is an intriguing mid-round option for a team looking to bolster its quarterback depth. After transferring to Oregon, Gabriel showcased his ability to lead a high-powered offense with excellent decision-making and accuracy. He doesn’t have elite physical tools but compensates with quick processing and solid mechanics. Gabriel could serve as a developmental quarterback behind a veteran starter like Derek Carr. With time to learn and grow, he has the potential to become a valuable backup or even a surprise starter down the road.
4th Round: Will Sheppard, WR, Colorado
Photo courtesy of USA Today.
The Saints need depth at wide receiver, especially with injuries exposing their lack of reliable options behind Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed. Will Sheppard, a standout from Colorado, is a physical receiver with excellent hands and the ability to win contested catches. At 6’3” and 205 pounds, he has the size and strength to be an asset in the red zone while offering versatility as a possession receiver. Adding Sheppard would give the Saints another weapon to complement their existing receivers and provide depth in an area that has been a recurring issue.
Draft Summary and Philosophy
This four-round mock draft prioritizes key areas of need while balancing immediate impact and long-term potential. The Saints can regain control of the trenches by addressing the defensive and offensive lines, a cornerstone of winning football. Meanwhile, skill position selections like Ollie Gordon, Mason Taylor, and Will Sheppard ensure that the offense has the depth and versatility needed to withstand injuries. Finally, drafting a quarterback like Dillon Gabriel offers a potential long-term solution at the game’s most important position.
The Saints have an opportunity to reset their roster and build a foundation for sustained success, regardless of who is leading the team in 2025.
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