The Saints' 2017 Draft Class: A Tale of What Could Have Been
When I think about the NFL draft, I’m always struck by how much of it feels like rolling the dice. Teams pour endless hours into scouting, analyzing, and debating, yet the outcome is rarely predictable. But every now and then, a draft class comes along that defies the odds—a group so talented, so impactful, that it feels like destiny. The New Orleans Saints’ 2017 draft class is one of those rare gems. Personally, I think it’s one of the most fascinating stories in recent NFL history, not just because of the players they selected, but because of what they almost achieved.
A Draft for the Ages
What makes the Saints’ 2017 class so remarkable is how they managed to hit on pick after pick. Marshon Lattimore, Ryan Ramczyk, Alvin Kamara, Trey Hendrickson—these names aren’t just footnotes in NFL history; they’re stars. From my perspective, this class is a masterclass in scouting and team-building. But here’s the twist: despite their individual brilliance, they never won a Super Bowl together. And that, to me, is what makes this story so compelling.
One thing that immediately stands out is how this class reshaped the Saints’ identity. Lattimore became a shutdown corner, Ramczyk anchored the offensive line, and Kamara redefined what a running back could do in the modern NFL. What many people don’t realize is that this wasn’t just a collection of great players—it was a group that perfectly complemented Drew Brees’s final years in New Orleans. If you take a step back and think about it, this class was the Saints’ last real shot at a Super Bowl with Brees under center.
The Moments That Defined Them
What this class really suggests is that talent alone isn’t enough. Take the Minneapolis Miracle, for example. Marcus Williams’s missed tackle on Stefon Diggs is often remembered as a blunder, but to me, it’s a reminder of how thin the line is between glory and heartbreak. Personally, I think that play haunts not just Williams, but the entire organization. It’s a detail that I find especially interesting—how one moment can overshadow years of excellence.
Then there’s Alvin Kamara, whose six-touchdown game in 2020 is still one of the most jaw-dropping performances I’ve ever seen. What makes this particularly fascinating is how Kamara’s versatility became a blueprint for modern NFL offenses. He wasn’t just a running back; he was a Swiss Army knife. But even with all that talent, the Saints couldn’t get over the hump.
The Bigger Picture
This raises a deeper question: What does it take to win a Super Bowl? The Saints’ 2017 class had everything—talent, chemistry, and a future Hall of Fame quarterback. Yet, they fell short. In my opinion, it’s a testament to how unpredictable the NFL can be. Even the best-laid plans can unravel in the face of bad luck, controversial calls (like the no-call against the Rams in 2019), or simply being outplayed.
What this really suggests is that the NFL is as much about timing as it is about talent. The Saints’ window with this group was narrow, and they couldn’t capitalize. It’s a reminder that even the most dominant teams can’t control every variable.
Legacy and What-Ifs
If you ask me, the 2017 Saints class is a study in both greatness and missed opportunity. They left an indelible mark on the league, but their legacy is tinged with what-ifs. Would they have won a Super Bowl if not for the Minneapolis Miracle? Or the no-call against the Rams? It’s impossible to say.
What I find most intriguing is how this class has scattered across the league. Hendrickson is now a Raven, Kamara remains a Saint, and Lattimore is a Commander. Their paths have diverged, but their impact remains tied to that one magical draft.
Final Thoughts
In the end, the Saints’ 2017 draft class is a story of brilliance and heartbreak—a reminder that even the most talented teams can’t guarantee success. Personally, I think it’s one of the most underrated narratives in NFL history. It’s not just about the players; it’s about the moments, the decisions, and the luck that shapes a legacy.
If you take a step back and think about it, this class is a perfect example of why we love sports. They gave us unforgettable moments, even if they didn’t get the ultimate prize. And in my opinion, that’s what makes them truly special.
