Why not do a final preseason mock draft?
The preseason just ended, but it’s never too early for a New Orleans Saints 2027 NFL Mock Draft. Last offseason, the focus was on offense, so why not flip the script? In this three-round rendition, the Saints add to Brandon Staley’s defense and give him dynamic weapons.
This article isn’t trying to predict what the Saints will do in the draft; that’s irrational. Instead, it’s meant to show fans a potential scenario and prospects that could resurface next April.
With that said, let's keep the intro short and sweet and dive into a Saints three-round mock draft.
Round One: Dylan Stewart- EDGE, South Carolina
Dylan Stewart is the most electric edge rusher in college football with his unmatched first step and elite lateral quickness. The six-foot-five, 245-pound junior pairs an NFL-level frame, reportedly having 33.5” arms, with a full repertoire of pass rush moves. He’s a triple threat, winning with speed around the edge, power through a lineman’s chest, and technique. Beyond this, he’s flashed brilliance as a run defender, albeit he must be more consistent.
These qualities make Stewart a consensus preseason first-round selection. The biggest question for him is how he recovers from a lingering back injury. If he’s fully healthy, he’s a sure-fire top-10 pick and someone the Saints must consider. He could be the successor to Cameron Jordan and the explosive complement that Chase Young needs.
Round Two: Vicari Swain- CB, South Carolina
Vicari Swain is a high-upside prospect with the athleticism to become a lockdown cornerback in the NFL. He pairs impressive ball skills with outstanding fluidity in press man coverage. Additionally, he’s shown fantastic instincts in zone and thrives at reading the quarterback’s eyes. Swain must improve his footwork in off-man coverage and run defense, but he’s the next great South Carolina defensive back.
The Saints cornerbacks are young and unproven. Kool-Aid McKinstry is the clear first option, but they lack depth behind him. As a result, Staley needs to add to the unit next offseason to help establish the Saints as a premier pass defense.
Round Three: Ben Roberts- LB, Texas Tech
Ben Roberts was hidden behind All-American linebacker Jacob Rodriguez in recent seasons. Regardless, he was productive for the Red Raiders, tallying 90 tackles last year. The six-foot-three, 240-pound player is a turnover machine, grabbing four interceptions in 2025 and forcing seven fumbles in his career. He’s a well-rounded prospect with superb instincts who’s as comfortable triggering downhill as he is dropping back into man or zone coverage.
The Saints’ linebacker room is filled with questions after losing Demario Davis in free agency. Pete Werner has been serviceable, and Danny Stutsman has flashed potential. But Staley should still look to improve the group if nothing changes. If they do next April, then Ben Roberts will be an intriguing option.
