Now that the dust has settled on the 2025 NFL Draft and rookie minicamps get underway throughout the NFL next week, it’s time to really look at the draft class for the New Orleans Saints as a whole.

Personally, I think draft grades are silly so soon after the draft and before the players take the field, but I do have thoughts on the decisions that the Saints made and how they did so.

Never Traded

The New Orleans Saints made nine selections in the draft but never once traded up or down to make them. This was the first time since 2012 they didn’t trade up, and it may have paid off.

They addressed critical needs in the trenches, added to their secondary, and may have drafted the quarterback of the future. Again, it’s early to know if any of that will be true, but on the surface, it was the best draft in a long time for the Black and Gold.

Shough it Up

The Saints selected Tyler Shough with the 40th overall pick in the second round at quarterback. The 25-year-old spent 6 seasons in college at three prestigious programs, so there’s no question he’s got the talent and the ability to lead an NFL franchise. Many people have issue with the injury history and age factor, but if he can come in and be a valuable starter for 5-8 years, it’s a win.

Steals

Every draft class, you can look at a few guys that feel like you got away with getting them. For the Saints, that is Oklahoma LB Danny Stutsman, Louisville CB Quincy Riley, and Kansas RB Devin Neal. All three players were selected on Day 3 and have a ton of upside, especially Riley, who will look to be a starter immediately for Brandon Staley.

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