The 2025 draft class already has this city buzzing. Will Campbell locking down the blindside. Tyler Booker bulldozing holes. A preseason spark from the rest of that crew. But the NFL never sleeps - and neither do the Saints. With the 2026 NFL Draft officially in the rearview mirror (April 23 - 25, 2026), the front office has reloaded with a fresh haul of talent ready to make noise in the Crescent City.
This is your Get Sports Journals fast-break preview of the newest Saints, the camp battles heating up, and the names you need to know before Week 1. Let’s get into it - Who Dat style.
The Headliners: Picks 1-3 Expected to Start From Day One
The Saints entered the 2026 draft with clear needs at wide receiver, defensive tackle, and offensive depth. They attacked all three with serious intent. Here's the trio under the brightest spotlight.
Round 1, Pick 11: Marcus "M.J." James, WR (Ohio State)
James was the most polished route-runner in this class. When he slid to No. 11, the Saints didn't hesitate. With Chris Olave entering a contract year and Rashid Shaheed thriving as a deep threat, James brings a physical, intermediate-game presence that offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak has been craving.
He's already been spotted running with the first-team offense in OTAs. Reports suggest he's developed instant chemistry with Derek Carr. Expect 60+ targets as a rookie - especially on third downs and in the red zone. Early camp reports have him turning heads with contested catches, a skill that translates immediately.
📊 Zero sacks allowed by rookie tackle Will Campbell in his first two NFL preseason games (2025) - That's the standard this 2026 class is chasing, and early camp returns suggest they're on pace.
Round 2, Pick 43: Devon "D-Train" Williams, DT (Georgia)
The Saints' defensive interior needed a disruptor next to Bryan Bresee. Williams is a 310-pound wrecking ball with elite first-step quickness. He's projected to start at nose tackle in the base defense and kick inside to three-technique on passing downs.
His motor never stops. Defensive line coach Todd Grantham has already praised his "violent hands" in one-on-one drills. If he stays healthy, Williams could be the anchor that frees up Demario Davis and Pete Werner to run wild behind him.
Round 3, Pick 75: Jalen Carter Jr., OT (LSU)
No, not that Jalen Carter. But this one's a homegrown product out of Baton Rouge - and the Saints are thrilled he fell to the third round. Carter Jr. is a massive, athletic tackle (6'7", 325 lbs) who played both tackle spots for the Tigers.
With Campbell locked in at left tackle, Carter Jr. is competing for the starting right tackle job. He's been splitting reps with the veteran, but his ceiling is undeniable. The dream scenario? A 2026 line with two rookie tackles - both 22 or younger - protecting Carr's blindside and backside for years to come.
The Middle Rounds: Depth, Speed, and Special Teams Aces
Rounds 4 - 6 are where Super Bowl rosters are built. The Saints loaded up on versatile, high-effort players who can contribute immediately in niche roles.
| Player | Round/Pick | Position | School | Projected Role |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Keyon Roberts | 4th / 110 | LB | Alabama | Nickel LB, core special teamer |
| Treyvon "T-Rex" Reed | 5th / 148 | Edge | Texas A&M | Situational pass-rusher |
| Malik Foster | 6th / 190 | CB | Florida State | Depth corner, return specialist |
Round 4, Pick 110: Keyon Roberts, LB (Alabama)
Roberts is a sideline-to-sideline thumper who'll start his career as a nickel linebacker and core special teamer. He's already flashing in coverage drills. With the Saints rotating linebackers heavily, Roberts should see 15 - 20 defensive snaps per game by October.
Round 5, Pick 148: Treyvon "T-Rex" Reed, Edge (Texas A&M)
A raw but explosive pass-rusher, Reed is the perfect developmental project behind Carl Granderson and Patrick Payton. He's got a lethal spin move and a nonstop motor. Don't be shocked if he racks up 4 - 6 sacks as a situational rusher in his rookie year.
