The long-time Draft analyst believes the Saints will add offensive firepower.
The mock drafts are flying before the two Championship games this Sunday. The New Orleans Saints are in a prime position to add an impact player with the eighth pick after an inspiring finish to the 2025 season.
ESPN's Mel Kiper has released his first mock draft of the season and has New Orleans selecting Jordyn Tyson from Arizona State to pair with Chris Olave at receiver.
"After rumors swirled about Chris Olave being on the trade market ahead of the deadline this season, it looks as if New Orleans is hanging onto its star wideout. However, Olave is under contract for only one more year, and even if the Saints extend him, they still need more pass-catching options for second-year quarterback Tyler Shough. Consider that Rashid Shaheed was the only other Saints wide receiver with over 300 receiving yards this season, and he was dealt at the deadline. Tyson could immediately be a red zone target for Shough thanks to his strength and ability on contested catches."
Kiper makes a good point about Olave potentially leaving in free agency. The former Ohio State receiver will have a significant market when he becomes a free agent, and Tyson could fill his spot. This would be the Saints' drafting for today and the future.
Damon Parson of Bleacher Report believes Tyson can be a WR1 for any team that selects him.
Parson breaks down how Tyson wins at receiver:
- Good route-running ability. Tyson thrives at attacking angles and leverage. His routes are run with the intent to step on the defensive back's toes quickly. His lateral agility and footwork are great in setting up defensive backs in off coverage at the apex of his route.
- Short area quickness and suddenness are key components to his space creation as a route-runner. On key downs, he is accustomed to being the go-to receiver when the offense needs a play.
- Alignment versatile receiver who can win from every wide receiver position in the formation. He offers the play caller the opportunity to move him around, dictate the numbers game, and create advantageous matchups for his offense.
- Effective playmaker with the football in his hands. He has good play strength to fight through contact and keep working upfield for more yards.
- Nuanced receiver who flashes late hands with excellent body control to come down with combat/contested catches. Plays with the requisite aggressiveness and confidence when high-pointing at the catch point.
- Good ball skills and leaping ability. Tyson has excellent body control and hang time as he high-points passes downfield.
A combination of Tyson and Olave will be tough to contain in 2026. The Saints offense will have plenty of firepower.