The New Orleans Saints are looking to add to their linebacker room in the 2025 NFL Draft.
The Saints met privately with UCLA linebacker Carson Schwesinger after his pro day, per ESPN's Adam Schefter.
UCLA Bruins linebacker Carson Schwesinger (49) moves to tackle Minnesota Golden Gophers running back Darius Taylor (1) Robert Hanashiro-Imagn Images Robert Hanashiro-Imagn Images
Despite playing three seasons in college, Schwesinger wasn't a full-time starter until he was a junior, when he burst onto radars with 136 tackles, 4 sacks, 2 interceptions, and a forced fumble.
The best part of Schwesinger's game is his ability to combine a high football IQ with quick instincts. The one-year starter has an impressive quick first step and forces himself into play early on downs. Schwesinger showed off his efficient lateral quickness at his Pro Day, running a 20-yard shuttle in the 4.1-second range.
While there are concerns about his limited starting experience, Schwesinger's journey from a walk-on at UCLA to a top prospect in the draft shows resilience and dedication. His impressive film and underdog attitude make him an intriguing target in the draft.
For his outstanding play in 2024, Schwesinger earned First-Team All-American, First-Team All-Big Ten, and was a Butkus Award finalist.
The All-American linebacker is projected to be the third linebacker off the board, behind only Georgia's Jalon Walker and Alabama's Jihaad Campbell. While the former UCLA defender can sneak into the first round, he'll likely be a Day 2 selection.
The Saints have been focused on adding to their defense over free agency but have not yet made any additions at linebacker. With the departure of veteran linebacker Willie Gay and the aging Demario Davis, the position has become a growing need for New Orleans.
The Saints have several key needs that could be addressed in the draft, particularly within the first three rounds. But with New Orleans holding the 40th overall pick, they will be in a prime position to select Carson Schwesinger and bolster up their defense.
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This story was originally published April 2, 2025 at 2:52 PM.