How did Jordan Reid do in his final mock draft?
ESPN Analyst Jordan Reid made his final seven-round mock draft on Monday, April 20. With no trades being involved, the New Orleans Saints made eight total picks. While some were perfect additions, others missed the mark. So, how did Reid do in total? Below, I’ve graded each of the selections he made and included my basic thoughts on them.
1:8- Mansoor Delane: C
LSU cornerback Mansoor Delane makes sense at pick eight, but the Saints should target other options. Delane is an amazing, well-rounded player who would be a day-one starter in Brandon Staley’s defense. However, I don’t love the fit and think edge rusher, safety, and wide receiver are all greater needs.
2:42- Gabe Jacas: B+
Gabe Jacas’ pass-rush prowess and violent hand usage make him an enticing selection in round two. He has an explosive first step and multiple defined rush moves that he uses consistently. Jacas would pair with Chase Young to create a dynamic tandem of edge rushers for Brandon Staley. The only thing holding him back from a higher grade is his subpar ability against the run. Jacas would be limited as a DPR until he improves his strength and IQ on early downs. Despite this, he would still be an amazing addition at pick 42.
3:73- Zachariah Branch: B+
Zachariah Branch isn’t a complete receiver, but his explosiveness and creativity with the ball make him a nightmare for opposing defenses. The Saints haven’t had a dangerous YAC threat in recent years, which is where Branch would thrive. He still needs to improve as a route runner, but the potential is evident. He would be an exceptional playmaker for Tyler Shough and instantly elevate this offense.
4:132- Hezekiah Masses: D+
Hezekiah Masses is a great prospect, but doesn’t make sense in round four, especially when the Saints selected Mansoor Delane earlier. This move would likely mean that Quincy Riley would slide into the slot next season, which is a real possibility, because Masses doesn’t have ample experience. Nothing against the player, but the Saints should opt elsewhere at this pick.
4:136- Albert Regis: C+
The six-foot-one, 308-pound defensive tackle is a monster against the run, which is what the Saints need. He would complement Bryan Bresee well and allow the veteran to focus on rushing the passer. Regis doesn’t offer much in this area, but could develop these skills later in his career. Regardless, he’s a solid addition in round four.
5:150- Kage Casey: A+
I love the addition of Kage Casey in round five. He was a left tackle while at Boise State, but projects at guard in the NFL. On the interior, he has every tool to become an exceptional player. Casey has a strong anchor, mitigating bull rushes, and is fantastic against the run. He would be an underrated addition, but one that could pay dividends in the future.
5:172- Eli Heidenreich: A
Taysom Hill is getting older; why not try to find his potential successor? Eli Heidenreich did everything for Navy in 2025: he caught passes, rushed the ball, played special teams, and even attempted a pass. He would have large shoes to fill, but could eventually develop into a similar player to Hill.
6:190- Jeff Caldwell: B
Jeff Caldwell is an athletic freak, achieving a perfect 10.0 Relative Athletic Score; however, he just isn’t a great wide receiver. He’s the ultimate developmental pick who would be a practice squad player early in his career, but could eventually make an impact. Why not take a flyer on these prospects on day three?