The New Orleans Saints started the 2024 NFL season strong, but their momentum faded fast. After winning their first two games, they struggled the rest of the way, finishing 3-12 in their final 15 games.
Some of that can be attributed to quarterback Derek Carr’s injury. But even with Carr under center, the team lacked the talent to sustain success.
While the Saints decided to stick with Carr for another year, they ultimately need to find a long-term quarterback if they hope to compete for a Super Bowl. That could mean targeting a signal-caller in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Saints Projected To Select QB of the Future in 2025 NFL Draft
Mel Kiper Jr. of ESPN projects the Saints to select Jaxson Dart in his latest mock draft following the first wave of free agency. Kiper acknowledges the Saints are committed to Carr for at least one more season, but with uncertainty beyond that, Dart could be an ideal fit as the team’s future quarterback.
“OK, here’s the surprise pick. And I know the Saints just restructured Derek Carr’s contract to tie him to the team for at least one more season. But what happens after that season? New coach Kellen Moore might want a young quarterback to work with and develop over the course of 2025 before turning the offense over to him in 2026.
“I’m hearing more and more first-round buzz on Dart, and New Orleans seems like a good fit. He wouldn’t be forced to play right away and could learn behind Carr. This team still has a lot of roster-building decisions to make, but getting the QB of the future now does make some sense.
“Dart was very accurate in Lane Kiffin’s run-pass option offense at Ole Miss, and he can cause headaches for opposing defensive coordinators with his ability to tuck and run.”
Dart is one of the most intriguing quarterbacks in this draft class, and his stock has risen significantly after a standout final season at Ole Miss. He set career highs across the board, including completion percentage (69.3%), passing yards (4,279), touchdowns (29), and QBR, while throwing just six interceptions.
With 41 starts over four years, the 21-year-old is a seasoned prospect. But experts have widely argued that he may need time to develop. Keeping Carr while also saving nearly $30 million against the cap could be one of the Saints’ smartest moves in recent years.
PFSN’s Mock Draft Projection for Saints
In PFSN’s latest mock draft by Anthony Pasciolla, the Saints are projected to select an All-Pro-level cornerback in Michigan’s Will Johnson.
“The reality is the New Orleans Saints are stuck in mediocrity and could use youth and talent almost anywhere on their roster. So, it makes sense to take an upside swing on one of the best prospects from 2024.
“While Will Johnson’s stock took a serious hit this past season due to injury, he is still incredibly talented, possessing an All-Pro level of IQ.”
Meanwhile, Pasciolla projects Dart to go No. 21 to the Pittsburgh Steelers, who have yet to find a starting quarterback for the 2025 season.
“Just as a player seemingly falls every year, there is also a huge shock in each draft. If the Pittsburgh Steelers fail to sign Aaron Rodgers or bring back Russell Wilson (which is highly unlikely), Jaxson Dart could come off the board earlier than anticipated.”
“Dart’s offense at Ole Miss was predicated on speed and efficiency, running a play every 22 seconds on average. This tempo minimizes responsibility for the QB, eliminates their ability to take a detailed pre-snap scan of the defense, and gives him tunnel vision towards his read key. If the Steelers and head coach Mike Tomlin implemented a similar system, Dart could find success for a pick that some might deem a reach.”