Saints 7-round 2024 NFL mock draft: New Orleans trades up for a quarterback

Round 2 Pick 45: Xavier Legette- Wide Receiver, South Carolina

A possession wide receiver is becoming a bigger and bigger need as it's getting more clear that Michael Thomas will not return for next year. Xavier Legette would thrive in this role and immediately be an impact player for the Saints.

Last season at South Carolina, Legette caught 71 passes for 1,255 yards and seven touchdowns. Legette’s calling card is his ability to go up for a jump ball and get it over a defender. He is extremely aggressive while in the air and becomes a mismatch to anyone who tries to guard him. 

In addition to being a great contested catcher, Legette also contains great speed and athleticism. At the NFL Combine, he ran a 4.39 40-yard dash and had a vertical jump of 40 inches. His speed helps him create separation from defenders and his vertical helps him jump up and go attack the ball.

Last year the Saints needed someone who Derek Carr could throw a 50/50 ball to in the absence of Michael Thomas. Both Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed were able to make some impressive catches but the Saints need someone who can consistently do it. Xavier Legette would be able to fit right into that role and could partner up with A.T. Perry and thrive in the Saints new offensive scheme.