The New Orleans Saints are navigating a challenging season, having lost ten of their first twelve games. As they look to rebound, the team is focusing on the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft, where they are projected to secure high picks that could significantly enhance their roster. With five games remaining in the regular season, the Saints are positioned to add top talent from the college ranks, which could be transformative for both their offense and defense.
Entering Week 14, the Saints hold several notable draft selections. According to projections from Tankathon, their anticipated picks include:
– Round 1: Projected pick No. 3
– Round 2: Projected pick No. 36
– Round 3: Projected pick No. 67
– Round 4: Projected pick No. 128 (via Seattle Seahawks)
– Round 4: Projected pick No. 138 (compensatory)
– Round 5: Projected pick No. 143
– Round 5: Projected pick No. 168 (via Seattle Seahawks)
– Round 6: Projected pick No. 184
This strong draft positioning provides the Saints with a valuable opportunity to rebuild. However, the team will require additional picks to bolster their strategy. The Saints are not expected to receive compensatory picks for potential free agents like cornerback Alontae Taylor, as those compensatory picks will not be available until the 2027 draft.
In the coming months, the Saints might explore trade options to acquire more selections. The potential for a compensatory fourth-round pick hinges on how many snaps cornerback Isaac Yiadom plays during the remainder of the season. To date, Yiadom has participated in 140 of the Saints’ 732 defensive snaps, accounting for 19.1%, and 87 of their 295 special teams snaps, or 29.5%.
Additionally, some underperforming veterans, including right guard Cesar Ruiz, safety Justin Reid, and edge rusher Carl Granderson, may attract interest from other teams seeking players better suited for their systems. The future of quarterback Derek Carr remains uncertain, and his potential return to the league could affect the Saints’ draft strategy. If Carr is traded, the team could receive late-round picks in exchange for his contract.
As the Saints prepare for the offseason, the focus will shift to maximizing their draft selections and making necessary adjustments to their roster. The team’s performance in the final five games will not only influence their draft position but also shape their strategy moving forward. With a high pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, there is hope that New Orleans can turn its fortunes around and return to a position of competitiveness.
