2024 has not been the year many New Orleans Saints fans have envisioned, struggling early with a 2-6 record. While the season isn’t over, the offseason is looking more and more enticing by the day.
An area the Saints must produce in is the 2025 NFL Draft. A strong class is needed if they want to make fans excited about a future that is currently looking grim. With sthat said, let's look at a mid-season mock draft for New Orleans.
1:6- James Pearce Jr., EDGE, Tennessee
Entering Week 9, the Saints hold the sixth-overall pick, which they use to select James Pearce Jr., the edge rusher out of Tennessee. Generating a consistent pass rush has been an issue for New Orleans, as it currently ranks 18th in the NFL with 18 sacks. This is an area where Pearce could come in and immediately make an impact.
Pearce contains a rare blend of size and athleticism that is rarely found, standing at 6-foot-5, 243 pounds yet containing a lightning quick first step. Pearce can blow off of the line in an instant, making it a challenge for the opposing tackle to stay with him. After the snap he keeps the offense guessing, as his repertoire is a mix of speed and power moves.
Pearce got off to a slow start this year at Tennessee, not getting a single sack in the first three games. However, he is back on track, achieving 3.5 sacks in the past four games. His best game of the year came against Alabama, when he racked up 1.5 sacks. In addition to that, Pearce provided pressure to the quarterback on 30.3% of his pass rushing snaps. This game perfectly encapsulates what he could be for New Orleans.
As with any prospect, Pearce isn’t perfect. Defending the run is a part of his game that needs to be improved. At times his contributions on a run are miniscule with him being taken out of the play. Pearce also needs to progress at setting the edge for outside run plays.
James Pearce Jr. is a prospect who would immediately come in and make an impact for New Orleans. His pure athleticism paired with his physical gifts make him an intriguing prospect for any team. If he is on the board at six, the Saints should take Pearce and improve their defensive line.