Bryan Armetta previews and breaks down everything you need to know about the New Orleans Saints heading into the 2026 NFL Draft.
Despite a brutal first few months, the Saints earned four wins over their last five games of the 2025-26 regular season. First-year head coach Kellen Moore found success in large part due to improved quarterback play. Rookie signal caller Tyler Shough showed enough over nine starts to earn some job security this summer. Now, New Orleans will attempt to bolster its roster around the 26-year-old passer. The team already added a playmaker, signing star running back Travis Etienne to a four-year deal in March.
Granted, it’s anyone’s guess as to where the front office will look to improve in the NFL Draft. The defense was solid last season, allowing the ninth-fewest total yards (5,096) in football. The offense, despite a late surge from Shough, was tenth-worst in total yardage (5,331). No matter what happens, New Orleans will be looking to select a day one starter with the eighth overall pick of the first round.
Who should the Saints turn to in the draft? Let’s break down all the possible scenarios before the clock starts on Thursday.
As previously mentioned, New Orleans gave its offense a jolt by bringing aboard Etienne. With that being said, more weapons are likely needed for Shough. Pro Bowl wideout Chris Olave is a locked in starter. However, there aren’t many other quality receivers on this roster. Fortunately, at least one of Jordyn Tyson (+200) or Carnell Tate (+400) should be available at #8. In addition, Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq (+1300) is an upside play worth serious consideration.
Although it doesn’t seem like a major weakness, there’s room to improve at every level of this defense. Up front, New Orleans only ranked 25th in quarterback hits (84) last season. Miami edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr. (+650), whose stock has been sliding recently, makes plenty of sense. Elsewhere, the Saints are lacking a true difference maker in the secondary. Mansoor Delane (+425), a lockdown cornerback, fills a need. To boot, the LSU alum would be an instant fan-favorite down on the Bayou. Ohio State’s Caleb Downs (+1400) would provide leadership and toughness at safety.
It’s almost impossible not to go wide receiver here. After all, this season is all about determining if Shough is ‘the guy’ going forward. Without any support, that becomes a difficult task. Still, this veteran defense could use a jolt of youth and talent. Quincy Riley and Kool-Aid McKinstry don’t inspire confidence atop New Orleans’ cornerback depth chart. The NFC South is also filled to the brim with high-level opposing pass catchers. Acquiring a CB1 in Delane may not be the most exciting move, but it might be the smartest.
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