It is never too early for some NFL Draft talk. As for 2025, the New Orleans Saints are hoping that they are picking in the 20s or 30s, rather than the top ten.
In Ryan Roberts' latest 2025 NFL mock draft, the Saints attack a position of need when it comes to depth and upside.
19. New Orleans Saints: Deone Walker, IDL, Kentucky
From a pure talent perspective, Walker has as much upside as anyone in this class. His pad level and impact in the run game, however, is still a major issue. If he can play with better bend and a little more stamina, Walker is a Pro Bowl player waiting to happen. There is no telling just how good he can become with good development.
-- Ryan Roberts
New Orleans takes another defensive lineman early in this scenario. Walker is a massive interior player, who has an elite pass rush arsenal. Similarly to Bryan Bresee, he has to take steps in the run game if he wants to play three downs at the NFL level.
Adding Walker to a duo beside Bresee would be quite dynamic, though.
Deone Walker brings an impressive blend of size, power, and agility to the table, making him a standout defensive lineman prospect. His ability to disrupt both the run and pass game, combined with his high motor and versatility, positions him as a valuable asset for any NFL defense. Walker's strengths, such as his tackling ability, foot quickness, and leadership, have been evident throughout his college career...
While he may face a learning curve adjusting to the pro level, his ceiling is as about as high as it gets. -- NFL Draft Buzz
It is unclear if veteran defensive lineman Khalen Saunders will be in the cards past this season. If not, this selection makes even more sense. There is a possibility where Bresee is the clear top starter at the position next year for New Orleans.
The Saints are hopeful that Khristian Boyd will be a long-term nose tackle, but three-tech will most likely be a need to address next offseason.
Walker does precisely that - while supplying the Saints with one of the most physically intriguing prospects in the 2025 class. We will see if he is on their radar once next spring comes around for the Saints.
