Former LSU tackle Emery Jones meets with the New Orleans Saints ahead of the NFL Draft, sparking potential interest.

As the NFL Draft approaches, the buzz surrounding top prospects intensifies, with teams working diligently to assess talent and make strategic decisions to bolster their rosters. One such player drawing attention is former LSU tackle Emery Jones, who recently met with the New Orleans Saints ahead of the draft. This meeting has sparked considerable interest, as Jones, known for his imposing physical presence and skillset, could be a key addition to the Saints’ offensive line. The fact that the Saints have shown interest in Jones adds another layer of intrigue to what promises to be an exciting draft for both the player and the team.

The Significance of Emery Jones’ NFL Draft Prospects

Emery Jones, a standout offensive tackle for LSU, has been regarded as one of the top prospects among the 2025 NFL Draft class. His size, strength, and ability to protect the quarterback have made him a highly coveted prospect. Playing for one of the most prestigious programs in college football has certainly helped Jones gain exposure, but it’s his on-field performances that have garnered serious attention from scouts and NFL teams.

Jones possesses a physicality that stands out on the field. At 6’4″ and around 320 pounds, he has the ideal size for an NFL tackle, able to overpower defenders while maintaining nimbleness to navigate the fast-paced, ever-changing nature of the game. His experience in the SEC, where he faced some of the nation’s toughest defensive linemen, has only honed his technique and mental toughness.

While Jones’ performance at LSU has drawn praise, it is his potential in the NFL that has NFL scouts, coaches, and executives keenly evaluating his prospects. His meeting with the New Orleans Saints ahead of the draft suggests that the team sees him as a valuable asset who could provide immediate contributions to their offensive line. But what makes this interest so significant?

The Role of the Offensive Tackle in the NFL

Before diving deeper into why Jones could be a great fit for the New Orleans Saints, it’s important to understand the critical role that an offensive tackle plays in the NFL. Offensive tackles are often considered the cornerstone of any offensive line. They are responsible for protecting the quarterback from edge rushers, preventing sacks, and opening up running lanes for running backs. In today’s NFL, with high-flying offenses and more complex passing schemes, the importance of having a reliable offensive tackle has only grown.

A tackle’s responsibilities go beyond just keeping the quarterback safe in the pocket. In a league where speed and athleticism reign supreme, tackles must be quick on their feet, able to slide and adjust against defensive linemen, linebackers, and even safeties who come on blitzes. They also have to maintain a high level of stamina and mental focus, as the nature of the position demands constant awareness of the opposition’s movements and the ability to react quickly to changes in the game.

Jones’ size and strength make him a natural fit for the demands of an NFL tackle. His ability to lock down the edge, combined with his athleticism, make him a prime candidate to protect a quarterback’s blindside, an essential aspect of an NFL offense. His versatility also gives him the ability to adapt to different schemes, whether in a zone-blocking or power-running system.

New Orleans Saints’ Offensive Line Needs

As the New Orleans Saints prepare for the 2025 NFL Draft, they are focusing on shoring up the areas that could take their team to the next level. The Saints have long been a competitive force in the NFC, and while they have enjoyed success in recent years, addressing specific needs on the roster is essential to staying competitive.

One area where the Saints have faced challenges in recent seasons is the offensive line. Though the team has strong components on the line, the Saints have been seeking depth and improvement at key positions, particularly at tackle. The departure of key players and the age of some veterans on the offensive line has left the team in need of reinforcements.

Emery Jones’ skill set makes him an intriguing option for the Saints. If the team feels that Jones can step in and contribute right away, it could significantly improve their offensive line. In particular, Jones’ ability to protect the quarterback and block in the run game is of paramount importance. With the Saints relying heavily on their offense to secure wins, a strong, dependable offensive line will be crucial to their continued success.

The Saints have already invested in their offense with players like quarterback Derek Carr and an arsenal of talented skill players. However, without a solid foundation up front, even the most dynamic offense can falter. Adding a player like Jones, who is well-versed in the rigors of the SEC, could provide the stability and protection necessary to ensure that the Saints’ offensive weapons can perform at their best.

Emery Jones’ College Career and Development

Emery Jones’ journey to NFL Draft eligibility has been defined by his development as a player at LSU. Over his years at LSU, Jones has gone through significant growth both physically and mentally, evolving from a promising young player into a dominant offensive tackle. His time playing in the competitive SEC has provided invaluable experience against some of the best defensive players in college football.

During his time at LSU, Jones showcased his ability to handle elite pass rushers and dominate in the running game. Whether it was blocking for LSU’s powerful running backs or providing protection for the quarterback, Jones displayed a well-rounded skill set that would transition well to the NFL.

One of the key strengths that Jones developed over his college career is his mental toughness. The offensive line is often considered the unsung hero of any team, and players in these positions must remain composed and focused throughout the game. Jones has consistently proven that he has the discipline and determination to perform at a high level, even when facing difficult situations. This trait will serve him well in the NFL, where consistency is key.

Additionally, Jones’ ability to adapt to various blocking schemes at LSU has given him the flexibility to fit into multiple offensive systems. Whether it’s a zone-blocking scheme or a power-run system, Jones has the physicality and the technical proficiency to contribute effectively in various styles of play. This versatility is a huge asset in the NFL, where offensive schemes can differ dramatically from team to team.

How Jones Fits with the Saints

For the New Orleans Saints, Emery Jones represents a potential building block for the future. As mentioned earlier, the Saints are in need of solidifying their offensive line, and Jones could be a perfect fit to step into that role. His size and strength would allow him to play immediately at the NFL level, and his work ethic and mental focus suggest that he could quickly develop into a reliable starting tackle.

Given the Saints’ need for stability on the offensive line, Jones’ fit within the system could be seamless. The team already has some strong pieces on the offensive line, and Jones could come in and complement those players, helping to solidify the unit and create better protection for their quarterback.

Jones’ ability to create lanes in the running game is another factor that could make him a valuable asset for the Saints. With a capable running back group and an offensive line that could use more punch in the run game, Jones’ size and power could help open up running lanes, allowing the Saints to control the clock and dictate the flow of the game.

Additionally, as the Saints work to extend their competitive window with veteran leadership at quarterback and other positions, having a young, talented player like Jones join the fold could be an important move for the future. Building for the long term while staying competitive in the short term is crucial for a team like the Saints, and Jones represents a piece that could help achieve both goals.