Saints Drafts: Mixed Bag of Hits and Misses

0:00It's April 7. You're listening to NFL News today, AI-powered NFL coverage. The New Orleans Saints' drafts over the last decade have been a real mixed bag, from total misses to franchise changes. Their worst class came in 2023, picking 29th overall with Brian Brasey, a decent but underwhelming defensive tackle from, Clemson. As Ayafosky in the second round was a straight bust, wave after zero sacks in two years, while running back Kendra Miller battled injuries right. When guys like Devana Sean exploded nearby, only safety, Jordan Howden, provided solid value late. Moving up, 2021 and 2018 stung two, thanks to first round flops like Peyton Turner, who barely played and sacked nobody, and Marcus Davenport traded up for but injury prone, with minimal impact. Those classes salvaged a bit with starters like Pete Werner and Paul Sinadebo, but the high picks dragged them down hard. The middling ones, like 2020 and 2024, delivered average starters such as Cesar Ruiz on the

1:04line and Tallahey's Fawaga showing. Early promise at tackle. Zach Bond slipped away to all pro status elsewhere, and Spencer Ratler held his own as a fifth round back-up quarterback despite a rough win loss. Mark. Newer drafts are shining brighter, with 2025 looking elite already. Kelvin Banks Jr. bolstered the line alongside Fawaga, safety Jonas Sanker started every game, and rookie quarterback Tyler Show turned a losing. Season around after taking over mid-year, proving his maturity at age 25. Back in 2016 and 17, the Saints hit gold. Michael Thomas rewrote receiver records before injuries hit, while the top ranked 17. Class landed Marshawn Latamore, Ryan Ramshike, and Alvin Kamara, building a powerhouse that defined their elite run-defense and offense for years.