What are the odds the New Orleans Saints end up selecting college teammates in this year’s NFL Draft? That’s what happened in the latest seven-round 2020 mock draft from Luke Easterling over at Draft Wire, who filled an obvious Saints roster need in the first round at No. 24 by picking Oklahoma linebacker prospect Kenneth Murray. Murray is a logical fit given his prototype size, speed, and college production for the position, as well as the lack of healthy options to start next to Demario Davis in New Orleans.
Then, when the Saints were on the clock again at No. 88, Easterling added another Sooners prospect: quarterback Jalen Hurts. Hurts took huge steps forward as a passer at Oklahoma after starting his college career at Alabama, where he rose to prominence based off his ability to execute plays as they were drawn up while buying time with his legs when the structure broke down. Hurts is known for his work ethic and high character, and could compete for the starting job with Taysom Hill once Drew Brees has retired.
Late-round picks in Easterling’s mock draft include LSU Tigers tight end Thaddeus Moss, Auburn cornerback Javaris Davis, and Texas A&M wide receiver Quartney Davis. That mix of options should please the many SEC fans that make up the Who Dat Nation, while also giving the Saints nice depth at a few positions that could stand to run deeper. All in all, not a bad mock-up.
