As the NFL Draft approaches, many teams have started to reveal their strategies, but for the New Orleans Saints, things remain a mystery. Despite the offseason buzz, the Saints’ draft plans are anything but predictable — and ESPN Draft Analyst Jordan Reid confirms that they are the hardest team to read this year.
Saints' Strategy Remains Unclear
Reid highlighted that while many teams have clear needs, the Saints’ situation is much more fluid. With several roster gaps to fill, New Orleans remains tight-lipped about who they’re targeting. The Saints' interest in the quarterback class is one of the few knowns, but beyond that, no clear picture has emerged for their first-round pick.
Tough Decisions Ahead for New Orleans
Reid emphasized that, unlike other teams with specific needs — like finding a pass rusher or securing a top-tier offensive weapon — the Saints face a different challenge. With the top picks expected to go to a quarterback, a two-way athlete like Travis Hunter, or a pass rusher like Abdul Carter, the Saints must be ready to adapt based on how the first few picks unfold.
“Right now, the Saints are unpredictable,” Reid said, noting how crucial it will be for New Orleans to avoid reaching for players purely based on need. The front office must be prepared to make adjustments depending on how other teams act.
Shedeur Sanders: A Growing Possibility for the Saints
Perhaps the most surprising twist in the Saints' draft plans is their growing interest in Colorado QB Shedeur Sanders. Just a month ago, no one would have predicted that New Orleans could select Sanders, but with his rising stock, it has now become a genuine possibility — particularly since many expect QB Cam Ward to be taken first overall.
FanDuel currently lists the Saints as the favorites to draft Sanders, with +300 odds. But as draft night approaches, these odds could shift. If Sanders doesn't go in the top three picks, the Saints might just pounce on this opportunity.
Free Agency Moves Shape the Draft Plan
New Orleans’ recent free agency moves have also influenced their draft strategy. With veteran safety Justin Reid now on board, the Saints likely no longer need to address the safety position in round one. Additionally, bringing back tight end Juwan Johnson on a three-year deal casts doubt on a potential first-round pick like Tyler Warren.
Though they’ve added some experienced cornerbacks, the Saints still face a pressing need for a starting-level outside corner. This may be more of a focus for day two of the draft rather than their first-round pick.
With edge rusher Chase Young also returning, the Saints’ pass rush looks much stronger, lessening the urgency to grab an edge rusher in the first round.
What’s Next for the Saints?
In conclusion, the mystery surrounding the Saints' plans for the 2025 NFL Draft continues to grow. With more questions than answers, the team’s front office will need to make quick decisions as the first round unfolds. Expect this uncertainty to continue right up until the draft begins.
