The NFL world is once again heading to Indianapolis for the scouting combine which means one thing: the 2025 Draft is around the corner. The combine kicks off an intriguing process of pro days and visits, as teams get to know the prospects they could be adding to their rosters in the Draft.
While that’s happening, draft analysts are busy trying to or predict the order of the draft with mock drafts. One of the most famous draft analysts is ESPN’s Mel Kiper. He has been at it for a long time, and he recently dropped his second mock of the year.
While Kiper had several interesting predictions, one of the most unexpected picks came at No. 9, for the New Orleans Saints. While many analysts see the Saints selecting an edge defender or a wide receiver, Kiper has New Orleans drafting Penn State tight end Tyler Warren.
Saints select Tyler Warren in Mel Kiper’s latest mock draft
This may be an uncommon selection, but it’s definitely a fun one that would excite fans. Warren is considered the top tight end in a loaded tight end class, and he’s expected to be an immediate contributor in the league. He’s coming off a season at Penn State where he caught 104 passes for 1,233 yards, and eight touchdowns. He also ran the ball 26 times for 218 yards and four additional touchdowns.
With New Orleans desperately needing more playmakers, Warren is an intriguing name to watch. He’d definitely make a lot of sense for the Saints considering they could lose their top three tight ends this offseason. He’d be a great piece for Kellen Moore to work with, grouping him with other young talents Chris Olave and Rasheed Shahid.
Of course, the dream would be for the Saints to get an elite quarterback in the draft, but the chances of that happening at No. 9 are slim. So if New Orleans lands Tyler Warren at No. 9, there shouldn’t be many complaints.