New Orleans Saints Trade Up To First Pick In Latest NFL Mock Draft

(Lake Charles, Louisiana) - In my latest 2025 NFL Draft version, the New Orleans Saints make a bold move and trade up to the number one pick in the draft to get their guy.

If we're being honest, the Saints have a ton of needs, but none greater than a franchise QB. They also need defenders who fit their new 3-4 defensive scheme, and offensive linemen to help protect our QB and open up running lanes. They also have to address the future as many key players on the roster are nearing retirement.

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2025 New Orleans Saints NFL Mock Draft:

The New Orleans Saints made a big splash in the 2025 NFL Draft by trading up to the number one pick. In a surprising move, they struck a deal with the Tennessee Titans to secure their future franchise quarterback, Cam Ward. The Saints have been searching for their next great signal-caller, and Ward, with his strong arm and ability to make plays under pressure, looks like the perfect fit.

Second Round Steal: Walter Nolen, DL, Ole Miss

As the second round rolled around, the Saints saw an elite defensive lineman slipping further than expected. Knowing they couldn’t pass up such a talented player, they used the 40th overall pick to draft Walter Nolen from Ole Miss. Nolen is a powerful force on the defensive line who can stop the run and put pressure on quarterbacks. His presence will be a game-changer for the Saints’ defense.

Third Round Focus: Strengthening the Trenches and Adding Playmakers

With the 86th pick in the third round, the Saints turned their attention to the offensive line. They selected Tate Ratledge, a strong and dependable guard from Georgia. Protecting their new quarterback is a top priority, and Ratledge will help solidify the interior line.

The Saints weren’t done in the third round. With the 94th pick, they added another offensive weapon, selecting Isaiah Bond, a wide receiver from Texas. Bond is a proven playmaker with great speed and reliable hands. He will bring a much-needed spark to the Saints' receiving corps.

Fourth Round Surprise: A Future Star at Safety

Early in the fourth round, the Saints were surprised to see a top safety prospect still available. With the 104th pick, they drafted Andrew Mukuba from Texas. With veteran Tyrann Mathieu (aka the Honey Badger) nearing the end of his career, Mukuba could be the perfect successor. He has the skills and instincts to develop into a key player in the Saints' secondary.

Fifth - Seventh Round Gems: Adding Depth and Future Starters

In the fifth round, the Saints added a proven starter in college at cornerback to add depth and a day-one contributor to the special teams unit, selecting CB Cobee Bryant of Kansas.

The Saints really made a splash in the sixth round with the selections of OT Jalen Rivers from Miami, who can play left or right tackle and add stability to the second-team offensive line. He's also a familiar and trusted face for Cam Ward.

The Saints also drafted another day-one contributor on special teams and a linebacker they believe can take over as the signal caller for the defense when DeMario Davis retires in a few years.

The Saints weren't done though. They added pass rush specialist Kamion Rucker from North Carolina and a running back who they believe new head coach Kellen Moore can use alongside Alvin Kamara as a modern-day version of "Thunder and Lightning", Tahj Brooks from Texas Tech.

Final Thoughts

Mikey O’s mock draft shows the Saints making aggressive and smart moves to build for the future. By landing a franchise quarterback, strengthening both lines, adding playmakers at wide receiver, and securing a promising safety, the Saints have set themselves up for long-term success. If the actual draft plays out anything like this, Saints fans will have a lot to be excited about in 2025.