By Ross Jackson
NEW ORLEANS — After starting off as what looked like a sure-fire postseason contender through the first two weeks of the season, the New Orleans Saints have had a surprising fall from grace. Their five-game losing streak has taken them from postseason lock to top-10 draft pick. A dramatic fall for an otherwise promising team.
Per Tankathon’s pick tracking of the first round, the Saints are currently in position to hold the No. 7 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
New Orleans has the highest position of 2-win teams because they have already played their seventh game of the season. Several 2-4 teams have higher selections, but that could change after Sunday.
The Saints will do everything in their power to fight and claw their way back to a better finish by season’s end. But if they were to end in this area of the draft, it wouldn’t be the worst situation for them. It would effectively lock down four picks within the top-130 of the draft once compensatory selections are added.
NFL teams don’t tank, at least not often. That won’t be the case for New Orleans. Players spend their entire lives to be on the football field, they tend not to take it for granted. However, the Saints have needs at several important positions where top-100 picks would be of great value.
With needs along the offensive line, defensive line, wide receiver, safety, possibly linebacker and with the team still considering future options at quarterback, high draft picks could have quite the impact.
The season is far from over, and draft positions will continue to change as games are played and tie-breakers shake out. But for now, the Saints are on the wrong side of the conversation. At least, until April rolls around.
