It’s officially NFL draft week. The 2022 draft is nearly upon us, so it’s time for a refresh of our New Orleans Saints mock draft, with input from our contributors Dylan Sanders, Ross Jackson, Maddy Hudak, and myself, John Sigler. This was the second collaborative mock draft our team has done together — and the first since New Orleans’ bold trade with the Philadelphia Eagles, which really shook things up. So take a look at what we were able to do in this scenario from the Draft Network mock draft simulator, and compare it to what might have been in our last effort. In just a few days, we’ll find out what the Saints have been planning all along.
Round 1, Pick 16
Best available prospects:
Dylan Sanders: I think there are a lot of options here, but with the Chargers behind us we have to think about what won’t be there at No. 19. They want either a wide receiver or offensive tackle, same as we are assumed to be interested in. Cross is too perfect of a pick in my mind to pass up.
John Sigler: I feel like we’re lucky for Cross to fall to 16. But Penning is available, too. Do we think they’ll both be picked before we’re on the clock again at No. 19?
Maddy Hudak: It’s Cross right? Has to be. Shouldn’t be there at No. 16 and you can’t build an offense with no left tackle.
Ross Jackson: Agreed. It’s Cross for me. The drop off at tackle is bigger than the one at receiver. And to Dylan’s point, L.A. going tackle would be a bigger loss for us than receiver.
John Sigler: If we want to go WR at No. 19, the only prospect I really like at that slot is Olave. I’m not sure he’ll make it. But we appear to be in agreement on Cross. And while I know he’s close with Penning on our big board, I think he’s significantly more pro-ready and should be your week 1 starter. That’s probably our pick.
Dylan Sanders: I think it’s worth the risk, there are plenty of options for wideout in the draft. Tackle is now or never….
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