Now we’re talking: the newest first-round 2022 mock draft from Luke Easterling over at Draft Wire has an exciting pick for the New Orleans Saints in Alabama wide receiver Jameson Williams. A star of the Crimson Tide’s win over the Georgia Bulldogs and their once-in-a-generation defense — having posted 7 receptions for 184 receiving yards, with a pair of touchdown grabs — Williams is rocketing up draft boards and looks like a fine match for the Saints.
Here’s what Easterling had to say about linking Williams to New Orleans at the 11th overall pick:
“Even if Michael Thomas returns to form, the Saints will need an explosive playmaker to pair with him, regardless of who ends up at quarterback moving forward. Williams has emerged as this year’s top receiver prospect, due to elite speed and big-play ability.”
Yeah, Williams would add a lot of firepower to a Saints offense that hasn’t been able to go toe-to-toe with many opponents lately. After transferring to Alabama from Ohio State, Williams has posted 68 receptions for 1,445 receiving yards and caught 15 touchdown passes (while also making plays on special teams as a gunner, though his aggression has gotten the better of him at times in that role).
He’ll have more opportunities to impress when Alabama lines up against the Cincinnati Bearcats in the Cotton Bowl on New Years Eve. The Saints always scout these postseason games heavily, but the connection between their obvious need at the position and Williams’ likely availability at their draft slot is too huge to ignore.
Follow the Saints Wire Podcast:
Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts