The New Orleans Saints are gearing up for the NFL Scouting Combine with a strategic eye on bolstering their roster. With an outstanding 2025 draft under their belt, they're poised to make another impactful move in 2026. But here's where it gets intriguing: the team's approach to addressing specific needs while navigating the draft's twists and turns. The Saints' 7-round pre-Combine mock draft
Setting the Scene
For this mock, we're assuming a few key factors. Veteran defenders Cameron Jordan and Demario Davis are expected to return, along with the signing of a starting-caliber guard in free agency. Wide receiver Chris Olave will also ink a multi-year contract extension. However, the team must rebound from the loss of cornerback Alontae Taylor, and while free agency talent bolsters depth, the Saints have ample opportunities to add to their roster on both sides of the ball.
Who's Off the Board?
1.1: Las Vegas Raiders select Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza
1.2: New York Jets select Miami EDGE Rueben Bain Jr.
1.3: Arizona Cardinals select Texas Tech EDGE David Bailey
1.4: Tennessee Titans select Ohio State WR Carnell Tate
1.5: New York Giants select Ohio State LB Arvell Reese
1.6: Cleveland Browns select Miami OL Francis Mauigoa
1.7: Washington Commanders select Notre Dame RB Jeremiyah Love
Round 1, Pick 8: USC WR Makai Lemon
Makai Lemon, a 21-year-old wide receiver from USC, stands out as a top talent. With 79 catches, 1,156 receiving yards, and 11 touchdown receptions in 2025, he's a dynamic playmaker. His 3.13 yards per route run is second-best in the class, and he tied for third with 21 forced missed tackles. Lemon's ability to separate from defenders and his big-play potential make him an ideal addition to the Saints' receiving corps, especially with Olave and Devaughn Vele already on the roster.
Round 2, Pick 42: Miami CB Keionte Scott
With the loss of Taylor in free agency, the Saints turn to Keionte Scott, a disruptive cornerback from Miami. Scott's energy and ability to disrupt plays make him a valuable asset. His 64 combined tackles, 13 tackles for a loss, 5 sacks, 2 interceptions, and 5 passes defended in 2025 showcase his impact. Scott's playmaking skills and competitive nature make him a perfect fit for the Saints' defense.
Round 3, Pick 73: Notre Dame RB Jadarian Price
Jadarian Price, a patient and talented rusher from Notre Dame, is a hidden gem. With 113 rushes, 674 rushing yards, and 11 touchdown runs in 2025, he's a dynamic threat. His elite vision and quick feet make him a perimeter winner. Price's ability to create downhill pressure and his trust in the offensive line's blocking scheme make him a valuable addition to the Saints' backfield.
Round 4, Pick 132: Iowa State DT Domonique Orange
Domonique Orange, a 21-year-old defensive tackle from Iowa State, is a solid choice. Nicknamed 'Big Citrus,' Orange's size and fit as a 3-4 nose tackle make him a valuable asset. While his 2025 stats may not be impressive, his impact on the field is undeniable. Orange's strength at the point of attack and ability to engage blockers make him a strong addition to the Saints' run defense.
Round 4, Pick 136: Western Michigan EDGE Nadame Tucker
Nadame Tucker, a 25-year-old edge rusher from Western Michigan, is a versatile and disruptive force. With 55 combined tackles, 21 tackles for a loss, 14.5 sacks, and 4 forced fumbles in 2025, he's a proven impact player. Tucker's ability to move around the defensive line and his disruptive nature make him a strong addition to the Saints' pass rush, especially opposite Chase Young and in rotation with Carl Granderson.
Round 5, Pick 148: Alabama IOL Jaeden Roberts
Jaeden Roberts, a 23-year-old interior offensive lineman from Alabama, is a wise addition. While he may not be the most athletic, his imposing size and power make him a strong foundation for the Saints' offensive line. Addressing guard must be a priority in free agency, and Roberts provides a talented player to develop in the mid-rounds. His experience at multiple positions makes him a versatile asset.
Round 5, Pick 170: Cincinnati WR Cyrus Allen
Cyrus Allen, a 23-year-old wide receiver from Cincinnati, is a scoring machine. With 51 catches, 674 receiving yards, and 12 touchdown receptions in 2025, he's a big-play threat. Allen's ability to take 92.2% of his snaps from the slot and his scoring acumen make him a perfect fit for the Saints' offense, especially with Shough and Kellen Moore's system.
Round 6, Pick 189: Texas A&M OL Trey Zuhn III
Trey Zuhn III, a 23-year-old offensive lineman from Texas A&M, is a versatile player. With experience at tackle, guard, and center, he's a valuable asset in the closing rounds. Zuhn's ability to adapt to multiple positions and his experience make him a wise addition to the Saints' offensive line depth.
