As the New Orleans Saints prepare for the 2025 NFL Draft, they face crucial decisions regarding their roster. The team has made strides in addressing offseason needs, yet several positions require immediate attention. Key areas include bolstering their offensive line, particularly at tackle, as they evaluate the futures of Trevor Penning and Taliese Fuaga. On defense, the linebacker and safety positions are also highlighted as potential areas for improvement, especially with veteran players aging or underperforming.

The Saints are considering adding depth at defensive tackle and tight end, as well as seeking a dynamic wide receiver to complement Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed. The quarterback situation remains a priority, with Derek Carr leading but Kellen Moore likely aiming to bring in his preferred system. Expect the Saints to target running backs and offensive linemen early in the draft to enhance their explosiveness on offense.

The New Orleans Saints have opted to retain key players while also making strategic changes to their roster this offseason. Notable incomings include Brandin Cooks, who returns after a stint with the Dallas Cowboys, and defensive lineman Nathan Shepherd. However, the Saints have seen the departure of former first-round pick Payton Turner, whose tenure was marred by injuries and underwhelming performance, totaling just 5 sacks over four seasons. Turner has now signed with the Cowboys, where he expressed enthusiasm for the shift in defensive schemes under Matt Eberflus, highlighting the Cowboys' focus on versatility and aggressive play style, contrasting with the Saints' more rigid system.

Turner acknowledged the challenges he faced in New Orleans, particularly in adapting to a system that emphasized technique over instinctive play. He believes that his ability to penetrate the offense could flourish in Dallas, allowing him to play to his strengths. With renewed focus on conditioning and a fresh start, Turner hopes to emerge as a more impactful player in his fifth season. Meanwhile, the Saints are looking to solidify their roster around their returning stars as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Brandin Cooks is set to return to the New Orleans Saints in 2025, wearing the same number 10 jersey he donned in his previous stint with the team. This reversion comes after Marquez Valdes-Scantling's departure in free agency, clearing the way for Cooks. Throughout his career, Cooks has switched teams five times, each time opting for a different number, making this return to New Orleans noteworthy.

This shift holds significance for fans, especially those who have retained their Cooks jerseys from 2016. The previous jerseys, produced by Reebok, have become vintage collectibles, as all NFL jerseys have been manufactured by Nike since 2012. For fans, this means that not only will they have a current player's jersey, but it will also serve as a nostalgic throwback.

Brandin Cooks is back with the New Orleans Saints and is already singing the praises of his new wide receivers coach, Keith Williams. Cooks describes Williams as 'the best receiver coach in the league,' despite never having played under him before. Their connection dates back to Cooks' high school days when Williams attempted to recruit him to Fresno State, which Cooks humorously declined. Now, both men find themselves reunited, with Cooks set to catch passes from Derek Carr, a scenario that might have played out years earlier had he chosen Fresno State.

Brandin Cooks remains open to a future return to the New Orleans Saints, stating, "you always keep that bridge there." His previous trade from the Saints was marked by tension, but with the current roster changes—including the emergence of young talents like Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed—Cooks sees a potential for rekindling his relationship with the team. With Sean Payton no longer at the helm and Cooks no longer requiring a leading role, a reunion could provide both sides with a fresh start.

Once relegated due to Michael Thomas's success, Cooks has matured since his departure. His early career frustrations have subsided, and the current shifting dynamics within the Saints offer an intriguing opportunity for a comeback that few anticipated.