The final mock drafts are rolling in, and the speculation is reaching a fever pitch. With top-30 visits offering clues—or red herrings—the picture of what teams might do on draft day is coming into focus. For the New Orleans Saints, holding the 8th overall pick, the prevailing wisdom points toward an offensive weapon, specifically a wide receiver, to bolster Tyler Shough's arsenal and give offensive coordinator Kellen Moore another dynamic playmaker.

CBS Sports analyst Mike Renner's latest three-round projection follows that script in the first round, but his subsequent picks reveal a fascinating defensive pivot. After potentially securing a receiver like Tate, renowned for his contested-catch ability to complement Chris Olave, Renner has the Saints addressing the other side of the ball with their next two selections.

At pick 42 in the second round, the projection is Texas A&M edge rusher Cashius Howell. While questions about his pass-rush variety exist, his elite athletic profile presents a high-upside project. If the Saints' coaching staff can refine his raw speed and talent, Howell could become a steal who revitalizes the pass rush.

The defensive focus would continue in the third round with linebacker Jeremiah Trotter Jr. The son of the NFL legend brings not only a famous bloodline but also a physical, alpha mentality to the middle of the defense. Analysts see a player with the potential to solidify the linebacker corps, drawing comparisons to productive tacklers like Nick Bolton.

This strategy—grabbing an offensive centerpiece early before doubling down on defensive talent—would signal a clear intent to build a more complete and formidable team. For Saints fans, it's a draft approach that promises immediate help for the offense while investing heavily in the defense's future foundation. The excitement in New Orleans is building as we count down the final days to the draft.