2022 Saints Mock Draft: New coaching staff goes heavy on WR picks
874. . Wide Receiver. Red Raiders . Erik Ezukanma. 117. player
Round 4: Pick 117 – Erik Ezukanma, WR (Texas Tech)
Even if the Saints are able to land Dotson in the second round, they can’t be content with just him, especially with Thomas’ future up in the air. That’s why the organization drafts another receiver just two rounds later, this time, Erik Ezukanma of Texas Tech.
Ezukanma spent four seasons in Lubbock with the Red Raiders tallying 138 receptions and 2,165 yards during that time. This past season he recorded a career-high 48 receptions for 705 yards and four touchdowns. He had 748 yards and six touchdowns the previous year with two fewer receptions.
Ezukanma wouldn’t be drafted to be a starter but another depth piece for the offense. If Thomas returns, he and Dotson would be the dynamic duo this team has longed for while Marquez Callaway, Deonte Harris, and Lil’Jordan Humphrey could also pack a punch.
The more receivers, the better at this point.
836. . Safety. Bruins . Quentin Lake. 139. player
Round 4: Pick 138 – Quentin Lake, S (UCLA)
If Marcus Williams departs in free agency, the Saints will have their work cut out when it comes to trying to replace him. Quentin Lake of UCLA probably isn’t the next big thing for New Orleans at the position but adding depth at the position is definitely something the team needs to do.
Lake notched 53 tackles, six defended passes, and three interceptions during his senior season with the Bruins. Drae Harris of The Draft Network lists Lake as a developmental player so he wouldn’t be expected to come in and start immediately.
Having Lake join this stout defense should help whip him into shape and he could very well be a starting option down the line.