Get ready for an exciting journey into the world of the New Orleans Saints and their draft strategy! With the NFL Scouting Combine behind us, it's time to dive deep into the Saints' potential draft picks and explore the fascinating scenarios that could unfold.
The Saints' Draft Dilemma: Unlocking Offensive Potential
Before we begin, let's set the stage. NFL free agency is just around the corner, offering teams a chance to address their needs by signing veteran players. But first, let's take a quick look at some key moves that will shape our draft scenario:
- The Saints have extended defensive end Cameron Jordan and linebacker Demario Davis, solidifying their defensive core.
- Cornerback Alontae Taylor has signed a lucrative deal with the Tennessee Titans, leaving a gap in the Saints' secondary.
- New Orleans has signed guard David Edwards, running back Kenneth Gainwell, and tight end Charlie Kolar in free agency, strengthening their offensive line and skill positions.
- An intriguing twist: No team has made a move for quarterback Derek Carr yet, which means no draft capital is added for 2026.
Now, let's explore the players who are already off the board and those who remain available for the Saints to select.
Off the Board:
- Las Vegas Raiders select Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza
- New York Jets choose Ohio State LB Sonny Styles
- Arizona Cardinals go for Miami EDGE Rueben Bain Jr.
- Tennessee Titans opt for Texas Tech EDGE David Bailey
- New York Giants pick Miami OL Francis Mauigoa
- Cleveland Browns select Ohio State WR Carnell Tate
- Washington Commanders choose Ohio State LB Arvell Reese
On the Board:
- Note Dame RB Jeremiyah Love
- Ohio State S Caleb Downs
- Arizona State WR Jordyn Tyson
- USC WR Makai Lemon
And now, the picks that could shape the Saints' future:
Round 1, Pick 8:
The Saints select Notre Dame RB Jeremiyah Love. At just 21 years old, Love stands at 6 feet tall and weighs 212 pounds. His 2025 stats are impressive: 199 carries, 1,372 rushing yards, 18 touchdown runs, and 3 receiving touchdowns. With a blazing 4.36-second 40-yard dash time, Love is a dynamic offensive force.
Love's selection brings an immediate impact to the Saints' offense, adding a game-changer and providing support to their young quarterback, Tyler Shough. Love's story is an inspiring one, and you can learn more about it in this College GameDay piece from last September.
Round 2, Pick 42:
The Saints go for Louisville WR Chris Bell. Bell, also 21, stands at 6'2" and weighs 222 pounds. Despite a November ACL injury, Bell's doctor has given him an optimistic timeline for recovery. With the Saints having selected Love in the first round, they can afford to be patient with Bell's return.
Bell brings a unique skill set to the team, excelling as a run-after-catch threat with his ability to navigate through contact. His selection adds a new dimension to the Saints' offense.
Round 3, Pick 73:
UCF EDGE Malachi Lawrence is the Saints' choice here. Standing at 6'4" and weighing 253 pounds, Lawrence has impressive combine results: a 4.52-second 40-yard dash, a 40-inch vertical jump, and a 10'10" broad jump. Lawrence's performance in Indianapolis raised his stock significantly, and he's now considered a top-100 player.
With double-digit tackles for a loss and at least seven sacks in two seasons, Lawrence fits the profile of a standup, speed rusher in the Saints' defense. He'll be a strong pass-rushing specialist, rotating opposite defensive end Chase Young.
Round 4, Pick 132:
The Saints address their secondary with South Carolina CB Jalon Kilgore. Kilgore, 21, stands at 6'1" and weighs 210 pounds. With over 300 snaps played in the slot over the last three years, Kilgore could be the perfect fit for the STAR role if cornerback Alontae Taylor departs in free agency. Kilgore's speed, size, and physical style make him an ideal candidate for the position.
Round 4, Pick 137:
Kentucky G Jalen Farmer is the Saints' selection here. Farmer, standing at 6'5" and weighing 312 pounds, is a relentless run blocker with room to develop in pass protection. Adding Farmer to the roster after signing a top guard in free agency gives him the opportunity to grow and develop in a supportive environment.
Farmer has the size, play style, and athletic profile to become an eventual starter in the NFL or a long-time backup. However, he'll need to cross-train along the interior to maximize his future opportunities.
Round 5, Pick 146:
The Saints add another wideout option with NDSU WR Bryce Lance. Lance, 24, stands at 6'3" and weighs 204 pounds. His speed is a standout feature, but it's his ability to win jump balls that truly sets him apart. With his size, leaping ability, and a 66.7% contested catch rate in college, Lance will have an immediate impact in the red zone for the Saints.
Round 5, Pick 170:
Oregon LB Bryce Boettcher is the Saints' choice here. Boettcher, 23, stands at 6'1" and weighs 233 pounds. While he may not be the biggest linebacker, his downhill movement and tackling abilities are exceptional. Boettcher could be an excellent special teams addition and has the potential to develop into a solid depth piece at the position.
Round 6, Pick 189:
The Saints select Ohio State CB Lorenzo Styles Jr. Styles, 23, stands at 6 feet tall and weighs 194 pounds. With a unique background, Styles transitioned to the defensive side of the ball upon joining Ohio State in 2023. Previously, he was a wide receiver with Notre Dame.
Styles' track speed makes him an ideal candidate for an excellent return specialist and gunner at the next level. The Saints could certainly use his skills in both areas. Additionally, Styles has experience in the slot, adding potential depth to a key spot in the defense.
There you have it! The Saints' post-Combine mock draft is an exciting glimpse into the future of the team. With these strategic picks, the Saints aim to strengthen their offense, defense, and special teams.
What do you think of these draft choices? Do you agree with the Saints' strategy? Feel free to share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below! Let's spark a discussion and explore the possibilities together.
