Can the New Orleans Saints return to competing in the NFC South?

In a wide-open NFC South, no team is too far from truly competing for a divisional title.

According to ESPN’s Jordan Reid, the New Orleans Saints should look to build through the trenches following a lackluster season from 2022 first-round pick, Trevor Penning as well as Ryan Ramczyk’s potentially injury-forced retirement. The pick from ESPN is Penn State offensive lineman, Olu Fashanu.

New Orleans Saints Complete 2024 NFL Mock Draft

Round 1, Pick 14: Olumuyiwa Fashanu, OT, Penn State

“New Orleans offensive tackle Ryan Ramczyk’s status is unclear as he deals with a knee injury, and the development of Trevor Penning hasn’t gone to plan. So without an answer at left tackle, New Orleans taking advantage of a potentially historic class at the position makes sense. And an argument can be made that Fashanu is the most consistent pass-protector of this group, though his run-blocking must continue to get better. Protecting Derek Carr is essential, and Fashanu has the potential to be a long-term building block on the line — he allowed one sack over 21 career starts.”

Round 2, Pick 45: Marshawn Kneeland, EDGE, Western Michigan

“Kneeland is one of the fastest-rising prospects on the board. The Saints’ 34 sacks tied for 28th in the NFL last season, and Kneeland has the tools to make a difference for this defense.”

With their remaining picks in rounds five, six, and seven (none in rounds three and four), ESPN has the New Orleans Saints selecting Ohio State tight end, Cade Stover (150), Oregon State wideout, Anthony Gould (168), LSU defensive tackle, Jordan Jefferson (170), Purdue tailback, Tyrone Tracy Jr. (175), Arkansas cornerback, Dwight McGlothern (190), Iowa punter, Tory Taylor (199), and Ohio State safety, Josh Proctor (239).