The New Orleans Saints concluded their 2026 NFL Draft, selecting eight total players in a class made up of five offensive additions and three densive pieces aimed at strengthing the roster.
While the class brings potential, the ripple effects of these decisions will be felt across the roster. Opportunities have opned for some, while others will now be facing increased compettition or uncertain roles.
As the dust settles on the 2026 NFL Draft, not every move carries the same weight. Here's a look at three winners and two losers from New Orleans latest draft class.
Tyler Shough's development will skyrocket following the draft
Winner: Tyler Shough
Tyler Shough managed to win Offensive Rookie of the Year despite working with a limited supporting cast last season. He finished with 2,384 passing yards and 13 total touchdowns. In response, the Saints made a clear offensive investment in the draft, spending half of their selections on pass catchers. They added three wide receivers and a tight end to help build around their young franchise quarterback.
Loser: Davon Godcheaux
Signs are pointing torward Davon Godcheaux gradually becoming the odd man out in the defensive tackle rotation after the Saints used the 42nd overall pick in the 2nd round to select Christen Miller. While it doesn't guarantee an immediate reduction in his role, the move signals a clear investment in younger, cheaper talent at the position. Over time, that kind of draft capital often reshapes the rotation and pushes veterans into more limited roles.
Winner: Chris Olave
Chris Olave earned Second Team All-Pro honors in 2025 after a standout season, finishing with 100 receptions, 1,163 yards, and 10 touchdowns. He put up those numbers while receiving limited help from the rest of the Saints receiving corps. With the addition of first round-pick Jordyn Tyson, defenses won't be able to key in on Olave as heavily, which should create far more single coverage opportunities for him moving forward.
Loser: Brandon Staley
Going into the draft, two of the biggest holes on the Saints roster were cornerback and edge rusher. Although the Saints selected three of their eight picks on the defensive side, none of those selections addressed those pressing needs. That approach left defensive coordinator Brandon Staley with limited immediate reinforcements at two of the most critical positions on his defense. The unit will have to be forced to lean heavy on existing starters and depth players.
Winner: Alvin Kamara
There was plenty of speculation this offseason about Alvin Kamara's decline and whether the Saints would move on from him or add another running back to reduce his role. Some analysts even expected a trade during the draft or an early round replacement at the position. Instead, New Orleans passed on adding a running back, signaling confidence in their current group. As a result, Kamara is positioned to remain a featured part of the offense this season.
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