NOLA Saints select a quarterback in first round mock draft

The NOLA Saints need a quarterback, as Taysom Hill has proven he isn’t the answer long-term. The versatile player started his only game of the season this past Thursday and threw four picks in a losing effort, proving that while he’s an exciting player to watch, he isn’t a quarterback.

That puts the Saints in a position where they need to add a quarterback this offseason whether it’s through free agency, trade, or the draft. In Josh Edwards of CBS Sports’ universe, they spend their first-round pick on a quarterback, who had New Orleans selecting Kenny Pickett out of Pittsburgh with the No. 13 overall pick in his mock draft.

"It feels like this season was always about clearing salary cap space and putting the team in position to make a run at acquiring a quarterback next offseason. I never imagined Sean Payton was truly excited about the possibility of starting Jameis Winston and/or Taysom Hill. Pickett is a smart player who Payton could trust. Plus, traditionalists would not have to worry about Pickett’s sub nine-inch hands consistently playing in inclement weather."

Some fans seem okay with the team re-signing Jameis Winston in the offseason and others would be fine with the team spending an early draft pick on a quarterback. The problem is that this year’s quarterback class isn’t great but Pickett is one of the best in this bunch.

NOLA Saints linked to quarterback in mock draft

Pickett has been sensational for the Panthers this year, tossing for 4,319 yards, 42 touchdowns, and seven interceptions through 13 games. Pitt won the ACC Championship Game and Pickett’s hype is through the roof as a result.

Pickett is also a good runner, racking up 233 yards and five touchdowns with his legs this season. Last season, he had eight rushing touchdowns, proving that he takes what’s open to him but doesn’t try to do too much.

If Kenny Pickett is on the board when New Orleans’ turn to draft comes up, it might be hard for Sean Payton and company to pass on him. With how important the quarterback position is, Pickett might actually make sense as a member of the NOLA Saints.