By Ross Jackson
Continuing our series of commonly mentioned first-round selection options for the New Orleans Saints from this year’s NFL Combine, we turn our attention from the most likely scenarios to a pair of surprise picks.
As a reminder, our three part series will look at the six most commonly mentioned possible selections in three categories:
- Most likely and impactful
- Lucky to get them at No. 9
- May want to avoid
This time, we’ll focus on guys the Saints would be lucky to grab at No. 9, although each selection would be a surprise in its own right.
Arizona WR Tetairoa McMillan
This would be a surprise because there is a far from nonzero chance that McMillan goes off the board early. But if he doesn’t, he should immediately be the pick at No. 9 for the Saints. He’s my top prospect for the team among the cloud of players that could be available here.
He would immediately give head coach Kellen Moore and his offense a dominating presence to work opposite Rashid Shaheed and Chris Olave. The trio would make up one of the best young wideout groups in the NFL. New Orleans needs a physical, mismatch option at pass-catcher and McMillan is exactly that.
Combine Measurements
- 6-foot-4
- 217 pounds
- Hand Size: 10 inches
- Arm Length: 31.5 inches
Combine Testing Results
McMillan did not participate in Combine workouts.
2024 Season Stats
- 84 receptions
- 1,319 receiving yards
- 8 touchdown catches
Texas DB Jahdae Barron
Barron is a name that continues to be connected to the Saints since their hire of former Longhorns staffer Terry Joseph. It’s a fit that makes sense with new defensive coordinator Brandon Staley’s emphasis on versatility on his side of the ball. Barron has experience all around the secondary which would be an excellent addition to other moveable pieces like safety Tyrann Mathieu and cornerback Alontae Taylor.
The surprise here is simple. Until recently, the top cornerback in the draft was expected to be Michigan corner Will Johnson. However, Barron has made his case to be the first defensive back off the board in 2025.
Combine Measurements
- 5-foot-10
- 194 pounds
- Hand Size: 9.5 inches
- Arm Length: 29.63 inches
Combine Testing Results
- 40-Yard Dash: 4.38 seconds
- Vert: 35 inches
- Broad Jump: 10-foot-3
- RAS: 9.00u
2024 Season Stats
- 67 total tackles (3 for a loss)
- 5 interceptions
- 11 passes defended
