Saints Could Pull a First-Round Surprise With This Prospect

New Orleans could bypass more pressing needs and do something they've never done before if this highly productive player is available with the 29th pick.

It was no surprise when the New Orleans Saints traded up in the 2022 NFL Draft to pick Ohio State WR Chris Olave with the 11th overall selection. Olave didn't disappoint, leading the team in receptions (72) and yards (1,042) while becoming just the third player in franchise history to top the 1,000-yard mark as a rookie. 

It was the first time since 2014 that the Saints had drafted a wideout in the first round and just the eighth time in team history they've done so. New Orleans has never selected a wide receiver in the first round of back-to-back drafts.

Could they break that trend this year?

Fellow rookie Rashid Shaheed came out of nowhere to finish the year strong. However, remember that Shaheed was also an undrafted rookie. Michael Thomas is back, but he's missed 40 of the last 50 games with leg injuries. 

Many expect the Saints to target a bigger receiver as insurance to Thomas if they address the position in the draft at all. New Orleans could also surprise and grab another smaller, big-play threat to complement Olave and Shaheed if this blue-chipper falls.

WR - Jordan Addison 

USC (Jr.)

5'11" 173-Lbs.

Dec 30, 2021; Pitt Panthers receiver Jordan Addison (3) runs after a catch against the Michigan State Spartans during the 2021 Peach Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY

Addison started his career with the Pitt Panthers and led the team in receiving as a freshman, catching 60 balls for 666 yards. He exploded onto the national scene as a sophomore, leading the ACC with 1,593 yards on 100 catches and and FBS-high 17 touchdowns. Addison was named 1st Team All-American and won the 2021 Biletnikoff Award as the nation's best receiver. 

In a surprise move, Addison transferred to Southern California for the 2022 campaign. His 59 receptions for 875 yards and 8 scores led the Trojans in all three categories despite missing three games with injury. Not surprisingly, Addison performed well at the Scouting Combine with a 4.49 in the 40, a 10-yard split of 1.56, and a 10'2" broad jump. 

Addison doesn't back down from physical play, but doesn't have the frame or strength to match up with physical corners. His timing will be easily disrupted by press coverage and he can get jostled around in congested areas. 

While fast enough, Addison doesn't have game-breaking speed to offset his lack of physicality. This could limit his effectiveness as an outside receiver, especially against a press scheme. 

Oct 15, 2022; USC Trojans receiver Jordan Addison (3) scores a touchdown past Utah Utes safety R.J. Hubert (11). Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-USA TODAY

No one in this draft class can match Addison's route refinement. He's excelled with a full route tree and was a consistent threat at all three levels of collegiate defenses. His sharp breaks at the top of a pattern create immediate separation.

Addison attacks the ball to secure the catch quickly and has good leaping ability to slightly offset his lack of height. He turns upfield immediately after the catch for extra yardage and shows good vision to find creases in a defense. 

Addison is a technician. He'll disguise his routes with a combination of quick feet and fakes to fool coverage. He breaks down coverages like a seasoned pro and will find different ways to get open during a game. He's a master at finding a weakness in a cornerback's technique and exploiting it over and over.

After the catch, Addison is extremely elusive in the open field, making him a lethal weapon on WR screens and quick passes. He has marvelous tracking ability on downfield throws and is deadly to a defense on go routes and deep crossing routes. He'll extend to catch passes, giving his quarterback the confidence to go to him in any situation. 

Oct 15, 2022; USC Trojans wide receiver Jordan Addison (3) catches a pass against the Utah Utes. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-USA TODAY

Jordan Addison is almost certain to be selected in the first round and may be the first receiver drafted. It's unlikely that the Saints trade up to pick him, especially with Olave already on the roster. 

If Addison slips, the temptation could be too great to pass him up. Addison may not have the physicality that New Orleans needs for their receiving corps. However, his elite route precision and ability to play the slot or outside makes him an instant weapon for any offense and would also make Olave and Shaheed more dangerous for new QB Derek Carr.