The NFC South experienced some big developments in this two-round 2024 mock draft from Draft Wire’s Curt Popejoy, updated after an exciting slate of college football action — including the addition of impressive Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders as a regular opponent for the New Orleans Saints.
Hot off a 510-yard, 4-touchdown pass performance in last week’s stunning upset of TCU, Sanders is already generating a ton of NFL interest despite his status as a junior. If he does turn pro he could end up with a quarterback-needy team and quickly become a problem for the Saints with a division rival like the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (as in this projection). Sanders will have another opportunity to play in front of pro scouts next Saturday against Nebraska.
Buy Saints TicketsBut who did the Saints pick in Popejoy’s projection? They used their first round pick at No. 20 overall on Ohio State left guard Donovan Jackson. He looks the part of a Saints draft pick from his position to his athletic measurements and obvious fit at left guard. Andrus Peat and Cesar Ruiz are on track to be free agents in 2024 and James Hurst will be entering the final year of his contract, so adding Jackson would make a lot of sense.
That’s not all, though. The Saints also own the Denver Broncos’ pick in the second round at No. 48 overall (through their trade for Sean Payton) and in this scenario they use it on Florida defensive end Princely Umanmielen. He just fits the athletic standards they maintain at the position at a listed 6-foot-5 and 255 pounds and he’s improved year over year as a pass rusher. A strong season could put him on New Orleans’ radar with an uncertain future at defensive end. They’re always looking to invest early-round picks in trench players.
