5 bold predictions for the New Orleans Saints in the 2023 NFL Draft

Saints bold prediction No. 2: Hendon Hooker added in Round 2

With Derek Carr added, it might not seem as though New Orleans should be in the quarterback market but that might not be the case. Instead of waiting and having another situation like when Jameis Winston and Andy Dalton took over, the Saints should be proactive.

That doesn't mean they should be considering a signal-caller in the first round — because they shouldn't. However, if a first-round talent such as Hendon Hooker from Tennessee falls into the second, they should seriously consider the move.

Hooker was a star for the Volunteers this season and had them at No. 1 overall when they beat Alabama. But a torn ACL ended his season during a shocking loss to South Carolina. Still, the Virginia Tech transfer had 3,135 yards with 27 touchdowns and just two picks in 11 games.

There's been a lot of hype lately that Hooker will still land in the first round but that might not happen. In addition to his knee injury, there are those who still see him as a developmental quarterback who benefited from the system he played in. For those reasons, this bold prediction is that he slides into the second round and New Orleans decides to bring him in.

Adding Hooker would be an ideal move for them as they would have someone capable of replacing Derek Carr one day. It would also help him since he wouldn't be rushed onto the field. He can take his time to ensure the knee is 100 percent healthy and work on his game while watching a long-time veteran get the job done on Sundays.