A challenging part of the draft season is trying to keep up with the New Orleans Saints meetings or workouts with prospects. This can be confusing, as new names and terminology are constantly thrown out. To help fans, this seven-round mock draft is focused on adding players the team has connected with.
These meetings can come in a variety of names and mediums. The Saints have hosted top-30 visits, private workouts, formal dinners, or interviews at pre-draft events with these prospects. Not everyone listed below had a formal meeting, particularly the late-round prospects, but a majority have.
With that said, it’s time to get into a seven-round mock draft with prospects the Saints have been connected to.
Caleb Downs is a top target for the Saints at pick eight
1:8- Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State
The Saints hosted Downs, along with several other Ohio State prospects, to a private dinner on March 24. This is excellent news as the safety would be an impeccable fit in Brandon Staley’s defense. His versatility, IQ and athleticism make him a high-impact player who would be a franchise cornerstone on defense.
Downs saw snaps as a free safety, in the box, at linebacker, in the slot and at outside cornerback. He would fill the STAR role left by Alontae Taylor, which is where he thrives. Throw positional value aside, Downs is well-worth a top-10 pick.
2:42- Chris Bell, WR, Louisville
Don’t overthink it; the talent and connection with quarterback Tyler Shough make Chris Bell an ideal day-two target. The Saints hosted Bell for a visit at their facility on March 10. Additionally, Shough has been attempting to persuade Mickey Loomis to draft his former teammate at Louisville.
Beyond that, Bell would perfectly complement Chris Olave and Devaughn Vele. He’s a middle-of-the-field threat and thrives creating yards after the catch. He’s a constant big-play threat and uses his otherworldly athleticism and speed to blaze past defenders. Despite suffering a torn ACL, he’s an enticing option for the Saints at pick 42.
3:73- Mike Washington Jr., RB, Arkansas
While the Saints haven’t officially met with Washington, they sent scouts to Arkansas’ pro day on March 13 to specifically see him.
Washington’s an explosive threat who flew onto the national radar at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine with a 4.33 40-yard dash, 39” vertical, 10 '8” broad jump. The Saints have lacked this type of running back in recent years, but are putting a concentrated effort into fixing that. They have another chance to do that in round three.
Other selections
Players with asterisks have formally met with Saints.