The New Orleans Saints aren't too far away from being an extremely competitive franchise, especially in the NFC. After making a big trade with the Philadelphia Eagles, the front office set itself up with two selections in the first round. It's time to take a look at what the Saints might do with a 2022 NFL Mock Draft.

It's no secret New Orleans needs help on the offensive side of the ball. Michael Thomas is likely to bounce back, but he's the only competent receiver on the roster. Meanwhile, Alvin Kamara may serve a suspension for his altercation in Las Vegas during the Pro Bowl. We should see the Saints emphasize offense in the NFL Draft, as the defense is one of the best in the league.

With that said, here is our New Orleans Saints 2022 NFL Mock Draft.

Saints 2022 NFL Mock Draft

Round 1 – 16th Pick Overall: Jameson Williams (WR) 

Jameson Williams is arguably one of the best receivers in the draft this year. Considering the Saints are desperate to improve their receiving core, they should pull the trigger on Williams if he's available at 16. He's a fantastic route runner that would serve as a high-end second option behind Michael Thomas. Look for New Orleans to take a receiver in the first round of the NFL Draft.

Round 1 – 19th Pick Overall: Bernhard Raimann (T)

With their other first-round selection, the Saints can fill another big need. Bernhard Raimmann is one of the best offensive tackles available in the draft, making him the perfect prospect for this franchise. Raimann would have a chance to win the starting role in New Orleans and help protect Jameis Winston under center.

Round 2 – 49th Pick Overall: Nick Bonitto (EDGE) 

In the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft, the Saints have a chance to make a splash pick for the defense. Nick Bonitto has nearly everything you'd want in a pass rusher. He'd be great in a rotational role to start his career, but Bonitto has the potential to become a star in the NFL. Look for New Orleans to potentially improve their defensive line in the second round.

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Round 3 – 98th Pick Overall: Dohnovan West (C) 

Although New Orleans has a solid starting center, adding a young prospect wouldn't hurt. The Saints' offensive line is a bit on the older side, so adding young depth makes sense for this franchise. Dohnovan West is an incredible prospect who can play center or guard. Look for the front office to reel in a versatile player to help improve the trenches.

Round 4 – 120th Pick Overall: Rachaad White (RB) 

With Alvin Kamara likely to serve a suspension, the Saints might be hurting for running back play to start the season. Although Mark Ingram is capable of holding down the starting role, he's getting up there in age. Rachaad White is a solid prospect that has the potential to become a starter in the NFL. If he falls to the fourth round, New Orleans should jump on the opportunity to draft him.

Round 5 – 161st Pick Overall: Chris Paul (T) 

Chris Paul is a decent prospect but definitely needs time to develop. The starting offensive linemen in New Orleans are a bit on the older side, so it'd be wise to double-up on tackles in the 2022 NFL Draft. The Saints can select Paul in the fifth round and take their time to develop the incoming rookie.

Round 6 – 194th Pick Overall: Josh Johnson (WR) 

In the sixth round, the Saints should consider taking a late-round flier on a wide receiver. Josh Johnson has all of the tools and mechanics needed to succeed in the NFL. However, he must develop into a competent pass option before being given serious playing time. Johnson would be a great fit for New Orleans, as he'd have a legitimate chance to earn a backup role on the active roster.