New Orleans Saints 7-Round 2022 Mock Draft: Big Reload On Offense

Round 3, 98th Overall: Matt Waletzko, OT, North Dakota

It’s certainly possible that we see the New Orleans Saints get more aggressive earlier in the 2022 NFL Draft to address the hole at left tackle, especially with a shallower class at the top. But, with the value not there, it’s addressed here in the third round with a fascinating small school prospect.

Matt Waletzko didn’t have much buzz at all before the Senior Bowl, where many got their first eyes on him. In the 1v1s, Waletzko flashed the athleticism and quickness in his pass sets, handling rushers who tried to win around the edge. His balance and agility to recover was also impressive. It’s hard to imagine a potential starter at left tackle leaves day two, and the Saints get a potential stud here at 98.

Round 3, 101st Overall: Jelani Woods, TE, Virginia

The tight class for the 2022 NFL Draft has almost flipped on its head. The athletes have taken the spotlight, including UCLA’s Greg Dulcich and Maryland’s Chigoziem Okonkwo. The other is Virginia’s Jelani Woods, who is the selection here at 101.

With elite size and impressive athleticism, Jelani Woods would have intrigue as a pass catcher from day one. What separates him from other great athletes at the position is his ability to work inline and block at a high level. The Marcedes Lewis comparisons will be there, and he offers the ability to win at the catch point, down the seam, and provide a multi-faceted impact for an offense.