New Orleans Saints 7-Round 2022 Mock Draft: Big Reload On Offense
The New Orleans Saints add some great receiving talents on offense in this seven round 2022 NFL Mock Draft.
It was an understatement to say that the New Orleans Saints had some work to do this offseason. The cap was the biggest hurdle for the organization, as they had to be under (or at) the cap line by March 16th. With a bunch of quick restructures, the Saints freed up almost $100 million, giving them around $30 million in cap space. It allowed them to bring in safety Marcus Maye and bring back quarterback Jameis Winston.
However, the Saints did lose two important players in Terron Armstead (five year deal with the Dolphins) and Marcus Williams (five year deal with the Ravens). Maye could help ease the loss of Williams, but the offensive line will need to be addressed in the 2022 NFL Draft, especially at left tackle.
Let’s also not forget about the wide receiver position. It sounds like Tre’Quan Smith will be back, but they need more help, even if Michael Thomas comes back ready to roll. New head coach Dennis Allen has a very good defense put together, with a good linebacking group, a strong corner room, and juice up front. Offense feels like the focus when the draft rolls around.
New Orleans Saints Mock Draft: Reloading On Offense
It’s going to be fun to watch how the Saints navigate the 2022 NFL Draft a month from now. With just over a month to go, let’s look at how things could shake out for the New Orleans Saints in this 7-round mock draft.
Round 1, 18th Overall: Jameson Williams, WR, Alabama
If one of the three tackles somehow falls, then the pick is simple here, but as previously mentioned, the New Orleans Saints have a need at wide receiver. With Jameis Winston back in house, finding a good complement for Thomas needs to be high on the list of priorities. That’s where Alabama’s Jameson Williams comes in.
Williams was dynamite for the Crimson Tide after transferring from Ohio State. The field-tilting speedster had a monstrous 2021 season, catching 79 passes for 1,572 yards and a whopping 15 touchdowns. Williams has instant acceleration and can score from anywhere on the field, along with the straight line speed to eviscerate cushion and threaten two-high coverage. His separation quickness is impressive, as is his ability to decelerate and accelerate with hesitation moves and in the short area.
His release needs some work, and maximizing his catch radius will be important, but as an immediate WR2 in the offense, he’ll make an impact as soon as he’s fully healed from his ACL tear.