LB Isaiah Stalbird may be Saints’ most underrated breakout candidate

By Ross Jackson

There are several players on the 2026 New Orleans Saints roster with breakout potential. From third-year wide receiver Devaughn Vele on offense to third-year cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry on defense, the team is brimming with young talent. However, it’s third-year linebacker Isaiah Stalbird who may be the most underrated breakout player on the roster.

With the versatility cultivated from his hybrid safety and linebacker experience, the athletic second-level player could turn into a consistent contributor after an impressive first year working in defensive coordinator Brandon Staley’s system. 

Stalbird appeared in just 6% of the Saints’ defensive snaps. 64 in total. Despite his limited exposure throughout the season, he made an impact.

With 25 combined tackles (two for a loss) and a pair of sacks on just 14 pass rushing snaps, the linebacker became a must-watch anytime he was on the field.

His role in 2025 was finite. Per TruMedia, 50 of his total defensive snaps all took place on third downs, 31 of which in third-and-7 or longer situations.

His speed, athleticism and surprising strength for his size (6-foot-1, 215 pounds) helped him be disruptive and impactful in his limited role. A role that in 2026 could be changing.

It’s not often mentioned, but with his linebacker and safety experience, Stalbird could be one of the Saints’ options to cover the slot should starting “STAR” cornerback Alontae Taylor depart in free agency. He joins second-year defenders Jonas Sanker and Quincy Riley along with veteran safety Julian Blackmon as options in that role. Practice squad cornerback Beanie Bishop is likely to make a claim as well, should he get the opportunity on his Reserve/Future contract.

“I’m a big fan of Isaiah,” said star linebacker Demario Davis during the season. “He just continues to get better and better. I think coming in and transitioning to linebacker with a defensive back background, it [lends] itself well to playing fast. Being able to cover guys, but being able to be an all around backer and have productivity as a blitzer. Being able to stop runs and continue to show up in a way that coaches feel comfortable putting you in.”

Stalbird has earned recognition within the Saints’ atmosphere both inside and outside of the facility, but much more could be on the horizon for the former South Dakota State Jackrabbit.