ESPN's Ben Solak outlined a draft strategy for the New Orleans Saints to achieve a perfect NFL draft grade in 2025. Solak advises the Saints not to reach for a quarterback with their No. 9 pick but to focus on upgrading the defense and strategically acquiring a QB later in the draft. He suggests leveraging additional mid-round selections to move up for top QB prospects like Jaxson Dart or Tyler Shough towards the end of the first round to secure talent and benefit from a cost-effective rookie contract.
Solak emphasizes the Saints' potential to secure impactful defensive players at No. 9, mentioning prospects like Jalon Walker, Shemar Stewart, and Mykel Williams who align with the team's defensive end preferences. He also highlights the importance of addressing cornerback and wide receiver needs in the draft to enhance the team's roster depth. Solak's draft plan for the Saints includes staying put in the first round, making strategic moves for a quarterback, and targeting key positions like cornerback, wide receiver, and left guard to improve the team's prospects for the upcoming season.