The New Orleans Saints are gearing up for a powerful draft strategy, but will they hit a home run again? Ross Jackson's pre-Combine mock draft reveals a bold plan, but it's not without its twists and turns. Let's dive in!
With the NFL Scouting Combine about to kick off, the Saints aim to build on their impressive 2025 draft success. However, as the week unfolds, rumors and speculations will swirl, leaving fans wondering: What's the real plan?
Here's my take on how the Saints could approach the 2026 draft:
Setting the Stage
In this scenario, we envision a few key returns and signings:
- Veteran defenders Cameron Jordan and Demario Davis are back in black and gold.
- The Saints sign a starting-caliber guard in free agency, bolstering their offensive line.
- Wide receiver Chris Olave gets a well-deserved multi-year contract extension.
However, there's a catch. The team must overcome the loss of cornerback Alontae Taylor in free agency. While they can strengthen their depth through other signings, the Saints have a unique opportunity to enhance their roster on both sides of the ball.
The Top Picks Unveiled
Let's explore the Saints' potential selections, round by round:
Round 1, Pick 8: USC WR Makai Lemon
Stats:
- Age: 21
- Height: 5'11"
- Weight: 195 lbs
- 2025: 79 catches, 1,156 yards, 11 receiving TDs, 2 rushing TDs
A surprising choice, but one with immense potential. If medical checks raise concerns about Tyson, Lemon could be a game-changer. He's the top separator among wide receivers and would seamlessly fit alongside Olave and Vele, adding diversity to the receiving corps.
Lemon's 3.13 yards per route run is second in his class, and he forced 21 missed tackles, showcasing his ability to gain yards after the catch. With 31 explosive gains, he's a big-play threat alongside quarterback Tyler Shough.
Round 2, Pick 42: Miami CB Keionte Scott
Stats:
- Age: 24
- Height: 6'0"
- Weight: 195 lbs
- 2025: 64 combined tackles, 13 tackles for loss, 5 sacks, 2 interceptions (both returned for TDs), 5 passes defended, 2 forced fumbles, 2 fumbles recovered
Losing Taylor in free agency creates a void, but Scott could be the answer. His energy and disruptive skills make him an ideal Day Two pick. The Saints have a history of targeting defensive backs on Day Two, and Scott fits the bill perfectly.
Round 3, Pick 73: Notre Dame RB Jadarian Price
Stats:
- Age: 22
- Height: 5'11"
- Weight: 210 lbs
- 2025: 113 rushes, 674 rushing yards, 11 rushing TDs, 2 receiving TDs
While Jeremiyah Love garners attention, Price is a hidden gem. His elite vision sets him apart, making him a patient and skilled rusher with quick feet and perimeter speed.
Round 4, Pick 132: Iowa State DT Domonique Orange
Stats:
- Age: 21
- Height: 6'4"
- Weight: 325 lbs
- 2025: 18 combined tackles, 0.5 tackles for loss, 0 sacks, 1 pass defended
Nicknamed "Big Citrus," Orange stands out for more than just his name. His size and fit as a 3-4 nose tackle make him an attractive prospect for the Saints.
Round 4, Pick 136: Western Michigan EDGE Nadame Tucker
Stats:
- Age: 25
- Height: 6'3"
- Weight: 250 lbs
- 2025: 55 combined tackles, 21 tackles for loss, 14.5 sacks, 1 pass defended, 4 forced fumbles
Tucker defies the age stereotype, proving that older prospects can make an impact. He led the nation in sacks and tackles for loss, showcasing versatility and disruptive skills. His performance at the 2026 Senior Bowl demonstrated his ability to compete with top-tier talent.
Round 5, Pick 148: Alabama IOL Jaeden Roberts
Stats:
- Age: 23
- Height: 6'5"
- Weight: 327 lbs
- 2025: 2 combined pressures allowed, 1 sack allowed, 0 QB hits allowed, 1 hurry allowed
Roberts may not be the most athletic, but his size and power are undeniable. He's a solid foundation for the Saints' interior line.
Round 5, Pick 170: Cincinnati WR Cyrus Allen
Stats:
- Age: 23
- Height: 5'11"
- Weight: 180 lbs
- 2025: 51 catches, 674 receiving yards, 12 receiving TDs
The Saints could double down on wide receivers, and Allen is a prime candidate. As a New Orleans native, he led the Big 12 in touchdown receptions in 2025, primarily from the slot. While he may be drafted earlier, if available, he'd be a perfect addition to the Saints' offense.
Round 6, Pick 189: Texas A&M OL Trey Zuhn III
Stats:
- Age: 23
- Height: 6'6"
- Weight: 319 lbs
- 2025: 10 combined pressures allowed, 2 sacks allowed, 1 QB hit allowed, 7 hurries allowed
Zuhn's versatility is a late-round gem. With experience at tackle, guard, and center, he's a valuable asset for any offensive line.
But here's where it gets controversial: Will the Saints prioritize defense or offense in the early rounds? And what about the potential impact of free agency signings? The draft is a delicate balance of strategy and opportunity.
What do you think of this mock draft? Are there any players you'd love to see in a Saints uniform? Share your thoughts and let's spark a lively discussion!
