Biggest debate of Saints’ NFL Draft approach

By Ross Jackson

With so much talent expected to be available at the top of the 2026 NFL Draft for the New Orleans Saints, one debate continues to rage on as the draft approaches. The decision to add an offensive playmaker, building around quarterback Tyler Shough, or adding another impact player to an ascending defense, is a challenging one. 

On one hand, the Saints’ offense has seen an influx of talent thanks to an active free agency period that included an explosive running back, a reinvestment into the offensive line and another viable pass-catching threat at tight end. That alone could lead one to hoping for a big-play generator on the defensive side of the ball. 

Players that could realistically be available to check that box are Miami edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr., Ohio State safety Caleb Downs and LSU cornerback Mansoor Delane. 

On the other hand, the offense could still use more playmakers, especially at wide receiver. Behind wideouts Chris Olave and Devaughn Vele, the team could wish to add more production rather than rely on the potential that otherwise populated the room. 

Players with a fit in that area include Arizona State wide receiver Jordyn Tyson, Ohio State’s Carnell Tate and Makai Lemon of USC. 

There’s always the surprise of a falling Jeremiyah Love, the Notre Dame running back, to consider as well while the team doesn’t yet have a long-term plan at running back. At best, Alvin Kamara is in a contract year and newly-signed back Travis Etienne Jr.’s four-year deal has an off-ramp after just two. However, this is a position (much like wide receiver) the club could prefer to address later in the draft. 

New Orleans shouldn’t have any trouble landing a solid starter at No. 8 overall. But the debate for which side of the ball should be targeted in the first round isn’t likely to calm until the decision is made. 

Luckily for the Saints, two more top-75 selections will allow them to address both sides of the ball with impact talent.