Saints replace Derek Carr with QB of the future and revamp offense in latest A to Z Sports 7-round mock draft
At 2-7, many New Orleans Saints fans will be on the lookout for mock drafts at this point of the season. They just fired their head coach, and things aren't looking likely for a turnaround this season. The playoffs are solely a dream at this point. Accordingly, they are picking in the top three as […]
At 2-7, many New Orleans Saints fans will be on the lookout for mock drafts at this point of the season. They just fired their head coach, and things aren't looking likely for a turnaround this season. The playoffs are solely a dream at this point.
Accordingly, they are picking in the top three as of right now, and A to Z Sports' Ian Valentino unveiled a full 7 round mock draft this week for the entire NFL.
Saints take new QB in round 1
In his mock draft, the Saints selected Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders. Autocorrect will usually change his first name to "Shredder" when you type it, and he's done that to plenty of defenses this season.
Shedeur Sanders possesses the intelligence, work ethic, precision, and creativity necessary to become a top-10 NFL quarterback. A question worth considering is whether his father will permit him to join the Saints, but it's clear that Sanders is the standout passer in this draft class. The Saints are in dire need of enhanced playmaking and skill at that position.
Sanders possesses some big-time arm talent, and there is no lack of work ethic from the young QB. He is a confident young player. As Valentino notes, he is the son of legendary NFL player Deion Sanders.
If New Orleans selects Sanders, there will be a massive shift looming if Derek Carr is still on the roster.
Rounds 2 & 3
34) New Orleans Saints: Tre Harris, WR, Ole Miss
65) New Orleans Saints: Anthony Belton, OT, NC State
New Orleans chooses to heavily bolster their offensive firepower with their first three picks.
Harris has NFL size as a prototypical outside target and has produced at an elite level for multiple seasons at the college level. Adding him to a WR group alongside Rashid Shaheed and Chris Olave would make a ton of sense for New Orleans.
Harris has the makings of a chain-moving X-receiver with plus red-zone chops at the next level. His ability to high-point the rock and win 50/50 balls will make him a QB's best friend on critical downs. While he's not a burner, Harris's deep ball tracking and ability to box out corners on vertical routes make him a three-level threat. — NFL Draft Buzz
As for Belton, he would come in to compete for a tackle spot opposite of Taliese Fuaga.
Trevor Penning has shown improvement in 2024, but he hasn't come far enough in his development to warrant locking down that spot with certainty next season. If the Saints like a player like Belton on day two, they should go after him.
Belton projects as a high-ceiling prospect with the potential to develop into a reliable starting tackle at the NFL level. His combination of size, strength, and improving technique makes him an intriguing option for teams looking to bolster their offensive line. While he may need time to refine his skills against elite edge rushers, Belton's physical tools and coachability suggest he could thrive in a zone-blocking scheme. — NFL Draft Buzz
*This mock draft does not include the draft compensation received in the Marshon Lattimore trade.
Rounds 4-7
108) New Orleans Saints: Nic Anderson, WR, Oklahoma
144) New Orleans Saints: Malachi Moore, SAF, Alabama
252) New Orleans Saints: Tim Keenan III, DT, Alabama