New Orleans Saints Mock Draft: Final 7-Round Predictions for the Saints

The New Orleans Saints don’t own a pick in the first round of the 2012 NFL draft that starts Thursday, April 26, nor do they have a second-rounder either.

The Saints won’t pick until Friday in the third round at pick No. 89 and the team will only have five selections in this year’s draft to make its mark. Saints general manager Mickey Loomis is going to have to make the most of his reduced number of picks, but mid- to late-round player evaluation is something Loomis has done well with in the past.

Here’s a full-round mock for the New Orleans Saints:

Round 3 (No. 89 overall): Jonathan Massaquoi, OLB – Troy

New Orleans needs depth at the linebacker position and could really use some help getting after opposing quarterbacks. Jonathan Massaquoi fills both needs.

Massoquoi still could use some seasoning, especially with technique, but he’s always on the move and an aggressive pass-rusher that can stop the run as well.

Round 4 (No. 122 overall): Akiem Hicks, DT – Regina

At 6'5" and 318 pounds, Akiem Hicks has the size that new defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo likes in an interior lineman. He also has long arms and a wide wingspan that makes this tackle imposing.

Hicks led his team in tackles and sacks his senior year and brings even more upside to the table for the Saints who could use an defensive tackle that can also help get after the quarterback. He’s also versatile, having played both tackle and end in college, and powerful, making him an attractive find in the fourth round.

Round 5 (No. 162 overall): Levy Adcock, OT – Oklahoma State

The Saints could use some depth at tackle on the offensive line and could also use some good, old fashioned camp competition. Levy Adcock can provide both.

Adcock is a natural athlete that doesn’t stop during a play, even if he’s beaten. But he doesn’t get beaten very often. He reportedly did not give up a sack in his final two seasons at Oklahoma State. He’s a punchy guy in protection that can mirror a pass-rushers' movements to stay with him and give the quarterback extra time.

Round 6 (No. 179 overall): T.J. Graham, WR – North Carolina State

Losing Robert Meachem to the San Diego Chargers through free agency isn’t going to devastate this receiving corps, but the Saints wouldn’t mind adding some depth. At 5'11", T.J. Graham is tiny by NFL standards but offers speed in droves. He caught 46 passes in his senior season for seven touchdowns and can also help in the return game.

Round 7 (No. 234 overall): Scott Solomon, DE – Rice

Scott Solomon isn’t the most gifted athlete, but makes up for that by out-working everyone on the field. Solomon has a never-stop motor that is enhanced by a very intelligent mind. He’s smart, shows great instincts, and can get under blockers' pads.

Solomon’s initial step is quick and he can get upfield and into pursuit well. His overall speed isn’t great, so while he’ll pursue without any signs of giving up, he might not catch the more elusive quarterbacks.