The New Orleans Saints endured a disastrous 5-12 record in the 2024 season, but their struggles landed them the No. 9 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. While no draft selection is ever a guaranteed success, top-10 picks are generally considered the most reliable, often featuring players with the best chances of making an immediate impact.
When New Orleans is on the clock at No. 9, they will have multiple safe and proven prospects to choose from. However, one draft analyst predicts that instead of opting for a conventional choice, the Saints may take the biggest risk of the draft.
In a recent ESPN feature covering the latest draft buzz, three analysts participated in a mini mock draft, each making alternating selections for the top 12 picks. At No. 9, Field Yates projected that the Saints would select Texas A&M edge rusher Shemar Stewart.
Acknowledging that Stewart is a risky pick at this stage in the draft, Yates explained that New Orleans is known for prioritizing raw talent and potential over college production. “Few teams are more willing to bet on traits than the Saints, and Stewart might be the biggest gamble in this draft,” Yates noted. He emphasized Stewart’s raw athleticism, stating, “He had just 4.5 sacks in his three college seasons, but his explosiveness and power are impressive.”
If the Saints do take Stewart, it would be a high-risk, high-reward decision. Despite his limited statistical production in college, his physical abilities and potential upside could make him an impact player at the professional level. Given New Orleans’ history of betting on upside, Stewart could be the kind of gamble they are willing to take.
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