New Orleans Saints snag LSU star in 7-round 2020 NFL mock draft

Michael Thomas is arguably the best wide receiver in the entire NFL. He finished the 2019 season with 149 receptions for 1,725 yards and nine touchdowns. He had more receiving yards than any other player in the league and set the NFL record for receptions. Thomas is obviously a big-time playmaker and an important player for the New Orleans Saints, but he needs some help.

Thomas was targeted a ridiculous 33.03% of the time by Saints’ quarterbacks in 2019, giving him a bigger target share than any other player in the entire league. Thomas is great, but the Saints’ offense would be even better if they could find a legitimate receiver to help take some pressure off of Thomas. With their first pick of this 2020 NFL mock draft, New Orleans makes a pick to get that help by bringing in former LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson.

Jefferson was a premier target for Joe Burrow in their incredible 2019 season. He finished the year with 111 receptions for 1,540 yards and 18 touchdowns. He was an incredibly consistent target for Burrow and the Tigers and has exciting upside at the next level.

Jefferson is a quick and smooth receiver who shows tremendous natural route-running ability. He can create space against the defense in the short, intermediate and deep passing game and is a tremendous weapon all over the field. Jefferson also has soft hands and can make some plays after the catch.

Simply put, the New Orleans Saints must work to improve their overall group of pass-catchers this offseason. Jefferson is an extremely smart and well-rounded receiver who would be able to come in and make an immediate impact on this team. If Jefferson is on the board when the Saints go on the clock, they should bring him in without hesitation.