It wouldn't be a stunner, just slightly shocking.
The wide assumption is that the New Orleans Saints will add to their offensive arsenal by taking a wide receiver with the eighth overall pick. The sentiment is logical, but the Saints will have their pick of a top-flight defensive player or receiver. In fact, what if New Orleans had a shot at the number one overall safety in the class?
Chad Reuter, draft analyst of NFL.com, released his seven-round mock draft, and the Saints walk away with the number one safety in Caleb Downs.
8. New Orleans Saints: S Caleb Downs, Ohio State
"Downs might not be the fastest defensive back in the league, based on his game tape, but his intelligence and instincts more than make up for whatever slight amount of time he loses over distance. Teams should not allow an apparent lack of pure speed to drop his stock, like what seemingly happened with eventual All-Pro Kyle Hamilton (drafted 14th overall in 2022)."
42. New Orleans Saints: EDGE Cashius Howell, Texas A&M
The Saints need an EDGE rusher, but Howell has a few red flags. His arm length is a huge concern since he would become the first EDGE rusher to be successful in the NFL with that arm length, and his pass-rushing bag consists of just trying to run past offensive linemen.
It's hard to imagine Howell succeeding on Sundays with one move and his arm length.
73. New Orleans Saints: WR Skyler Bell, Connecticut
Lance Zierlein of NFL.com compares Bell to Michael Gallup. Here are his thoughts:
"Bell is an inside/outside target with adequate size and field-stretching speed. He has the tools to beat press quickly and the acceleration/cut quickness to open clean windows. While he’s sudden in and out of his break points, his route-running can be a tad mechanical at times. Bell’s catch focus appeared sharper in 2025 but his career drop total rivals his touchdown total. The TDs left on the field due to underthrown passes at UConn will turn into NFL touchdowns with an accurate passer. Bell’s speed and upside should make him a productive starter."
150. New Orleans Saints: LB Bryce Boettcher, Oregon
The Saints addressed their biggest needs with their first four selections. Demario Davis bolted for the Jets, so Boettcher fits in immediately.
Here are Zierlein's thoughts:
"Two-sport standout at Oregon who passed on a chance to start his baseball career, choosing to pursue an NFL opportunity instead. The former walk-on plays like the chip never left his shoulder. He’s fearless in his downhill approach, which leads to feast-or-famine results in the run game. His size, speed and athleticism are average, but his competitive will and motor cover some of that up. Boettcher profiles as an NFL backup but his special-teams talent could be his ticket to a higher draft slotting."