As the NFL Draft approaches, one of the most talked-about teams has been the New Orleans Saints. The franchise, known for its aggressive moves and forward-thinking strategies, is poised to make a major statement during this year’s draft. In a surprising twist, GM Mickey Loomis has made headlines by expressing unwavering confidence in the Saints’ decision to target quarterback Jaxson Dart with their second overall pick.
A Bold Move for Jaxson Dart
The 2025 NFL Draft is set to be one of the most intriguing in recent memory, with several top-tier quarterbacks up for grabs. However, few expected the Saints to make such a bold move at the second spot, especially given the impressive quarterbacks available in this class. Yet, Loomis and the Saints’ front office have remained steadfast in their belief that Dart is the future of the franchise.
While some analysts had speculated that the Saints might look to trade down or target a more polished prospect, Loomis’ comments have solidified the idea that they are all-in on Dart. The former Ole Miss standout has shown flashes of brilliance over his college career, combining mobility, arm strength, and playmaking ability in a way that’s hard to ignore.
Loomis Speaks Out: Confidence in Dart’s Potential
When asked about the Saints’ plan for the upcoming draft, Mickey Loomis was candid in his support for Dart. “We’ve been watching Jaxson for a while now, and we truly believe he has the potential to be a franchise quarterback. He’s got all the tools we’re looking for — he’s mobile, he’s got the arm, and he can make all the throws. We’re confident in our decision, and we believe he’s the future of this organization,” Loomis said.
The boldness of Loomis’ words has left many analysts and fans alike scratching their heads, but it’s clear that the Saints see something special in Dart. With Drew Brees now retired, the Saints have been in search of a quarterback to guide the team back to championship contention, and Dart could be the man to do just that.
Why Jaxson Dart?
Jaxson Dart may not be the first name that comes to mind for many draft experts, but his upside is undeniable. Dart’s college career at Ole Miss was marked by both highs and lows, but it was his ability to bounce back and improve each year that caught the Saints’ attention.
One of Dart’s most appealing traits is his dual-threat ability. He’s a mobile quarterback who can extend plays with his legs, an important attribute in today’s NFL. He also possesses a strong arm and a natural ability to read defenses, which allows him to make a variety of throws from different platforms. His athleticism and versatility could be a perfect fit for the Saints’ offense, especially if they look to integrate more spread concepts and uptempo playcalling.
Moreover, Dart’s leadership on and off the field has impressed many in the NFL scouting community. His maturity and poise in pressure situations, especially in big SEC games, have made him an attractive prospect for teams looking for a long-term signal-caller.
The Saints’ Quarterback Situation
The Saints are currently in an interesting position at quarterback. While veteran Derek Carr was brought in during the offseason, it’s clear that the team is looking beyond the immediate future and planning for a successor who can eventually take over the reins.
Carr, who signed a four-year deal, is likely to be the starter for the foreseeable future, but the Saints have always been forward-thinking. Loomis’ decision to select a quarterback as high as No. 2 suggests the team is looking to develop Dart behind Carr and give him time to learn the ropes before he’s thrust into a starting role.
This approach mirrors some of the most successful teams in recent years, who have drafted quarterbacks with high upside and allowed them time to mature under a seasoned veteran. Dart could benefit greatly from learning under Carr, a quarterback with a wealth of experience who can help guide him through the early stages of his career.
Potential Impact on the Saints’ Draft Strategy
The selection of Dart at No. 2 would dramatically alter the Saints’ draft strategy. The team has several other needs, including bolstering their defensive line, improving the receiving corps, and adding depth in the secondary. However, selecting a quarterback with the second overall pick would shift the focus to building around Dart in the coming years.
The Saints could still address their other needs later in the draft, and with Loomis’ track record of making shrewd moves, it’s likely that they’ll find ways to fill out the roster in key areas. But the centerpiece of their draft will likely be Dart, as they invest in their future at the quarterback position.
The Surprising Shift in Focus
The Saints’ decision to target Dart has certainly taken the league by surprise. Many expected them to go for a more traditional choice at quarterback, especially given the caliber of talent available in this draft. However, Loomis’ faith in Dart’s potential indicates that the Saints are ready to take a calculated risk on a quarterback with immense upside, rather than a safer, more established prospect.
This shift in focus reflects the Saints’ willingness to take bold steps in rebuilding their franchise and preparing for the future. By targeting Dart, the team is sending a message that they’re not content to just rebuild — they’re looking to accelerate the process and position themselves for long-term success.
What’s Next for the Saints?
With the draft rapidly approaching, the pressure is on for the Saints to make their pick count. If they do indeed select Jaxson Dart at No. 2, all eyes will be on him to see how he transitions into the NFL. The expectations will be high, but with the backing of a confident GM like Loomis, Dart will have the support he needs to make his mark.
As the 2025 NFL Draft unfolds, the New Orleans Saints are poised to make a bold move that could reshape their future for years to come. Whether it’s the right decision or not, one thing is for sure: Mickey Loomis and the Saints are committed to taking a swing for the fences — and they’re betting on Jaxson Dart to be the face of their franchise moving forward.
