Mock drafts galore. As we approach April, the mocks will fly and the New Orleans Saints have a notable amount of capital for this year’s NFL draft.

The Saints made key additions on both sides of the football during Tyler Forness’ latest 2-round mock draft. Both picks filled need but also understood the value on the prospects on the board.

Round 1: Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State

“What’s better than having one Chris Olave? How about two wide receivers who play like him? Tate is a route running savant who gets open with savvy in the open field, while also having an excellent ability to dominate the catch point with 12 catches on 14 attempts this past season.” — Tyler Forness

Tate is a popular pick for the Saints in recent mocks, and that shouldn’t shock anyone.

New Orleans did not add an impact WR during free agency and could still use a standout WR2 alongside Chris Olave. Devaughn Vele played solid football when healthy last season, but he has struggled to stay available at times during his career.

Tate is a player who compliments Olave and continues a strong pipeline from the Buckeyes to the Saints over the last decade. Smart value and fills their biggest offensive need.

Round 2: Christen Miller, DT, Georgia

Miller is a very underrated prospect and deserves to go in this range, for my money. His potential is higher than some of his DL counterparts in the class, and defensive tackle is actually one of the larger needs on the roster for Kellen Moore’s team.

Bryan Bresee took another step forward last season, but the depth is concerning both at 3T and nose tackle.

“Miller’s strength and athleticism combo give him a very exciting ceiling that will have NFL decision-makers excited to get him in their building. Compared to other top DTs in this class, though, he is more of a raw prospect. Teams looking for immediate help for the interior of their defensive line may look elsewhere in the early rounds. But if a team can be patient, Miller has the makings of a long-term foundational piece who can impact both the running and passing games at a high level.” — Destin Adams

Miller plays a highly intelligent game that Brandon Staley will value. I’d be shocked if New Orleans did not hold some interest in him on day two of the draft.

All in all, this was a strong start to the draft for the Saints if it becomes their reality. Both sides of the football immediately improved, and both players would make an impact as rookies.

New Orleans Saints News

Young Saints player is already getting tips from a franchise legend to boost his NFL career

You already know he wants to learn as much as he can.

Adam Holt