The New Orleans Saints address a major need by selecting elite edge rusher with the ninth pick in CBS Sports’ latest NFL mock draft.
With the ninth overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Saints will have numerous options. They could target a quarterback if one falls, bolster their offensive line, add a playmaker for Derek Carr, or reinforce their defense. Given their multiple roster needs, they have the flexibility to go in several directions.
Many expect the Saints to prioritize offense, especially with new head coach Kellen Moore’s offensive background. However, CBS’s Garrett Podell predicts they will use their first top-10 pick in over 15 years to strengthen the defense.
New Orleans has struggled to generate pressure in recent seasons, ranking 19th in sacks per game (2.4) in 2024 and 28th (2.0) in 2023. After two underwhelming years in pass rushing, Podell projects them to select former Georgia defensive end Jalon Walker.
Walker posted 6.5 sacks and 34 pressures last season, highlighted by a standout performance against Texas in the SEC Championship Game, where he registered six pressures and a sack. In the regular season, he recorded three sacks against Texas, meaning four of his total sacks came against a top-tier opponent.
The Saints recently met with multiple Georgia players, including Walker, indicating strong interest. While selecting Shedeur Sanders, Ashton Jeanty, Tet McMillan, or another offensive weapon might be the more exciting choice, investing in the trenches is often a wise move.
Although the Saints have a mixed history with early edge rusher selections—Marcus Davenport, Payton Turner, and Isiah Foskey—Walker appears to be a cut above their recent first-round investments.
With various names linked to the Saints in mock drafts, their direction remains uncertain. Given their widespread needs, they are likely to select the best available player when their turn comes.
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