Saints Targeting Georgia Star in 2025 NFL Draft

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the New Orleans Saints are reportedly focusing their attention on a standout player from the University of Georgia—defensive end Mykel Williams. According to various mock drafts and insider analyses, Williams is emerging as a top candidate for the Saints’ first-round selection.
Mykel Williams: A Rising Star
Mykel Williams, a 6’5″, 260-pound defensive end from Georgia, has been a force on the Bulldogs’ defense. Over his three seasons at Georgia, Williams has accumulated 14 sacks, 23 tackles for loss, and three forced fumbles. His performance in the SEC Championship Game, where he recorded two sacks in an overtime victory against Texas, highlighted his potential as a pass-rusher .
Saints’ Defensive Needs
The New Orleans Saints have been struggling with their pass rush, ranking 28th in pass rush win rate at 35.0%. With veteran defensive end Cameron Jordan approaching the twilight of his career and the team’s overall defensive performance needing improvement, selecting a dynamic pass rusher like Williams could address a critical need .
Mock Draft Projections
Several mock drafts have linked the Saints to Williams:
- ESPN’s Field Yates projects Williams to the Saints at No. 10 overall, citing his rare length and fluidity for the edge position, which could make him a potential Pro Bowl-level pass rusher .
- Bleacher Report also has Williams going to New Orleans at No. 10, emphasizing his impressive strength at the point of attack and potential as a future cornerstone for the Saints’ defense .
With the 2025 NFL Draft just days away, Mykel Williams stands out as a prime candidate for the New Orleans Saints’ first-round pick. His impressive college career at Georgia, combined with the Saints’ need for a dynamic pass rusher, makes him a logical choice to bolster New Orleans’ defense for the upcoming seasons.