The pre-draft process has officially begun with the East-West Shrine Bowl in Dallas, TX. The New Orleans Saints will likely be heavily invested in this event, and so should fans. There are numerous intriguing prospects Mickey Loomis and the rest of the front office should have on their minds.
This list below is a mix of positional need for the Saints and some of the best players available. Each prospect would offer something different and would help the Saints next season.
With that said, here are five prospects Saints fans should keep their eyes on during the 2026 East-West Shrine Bowl.
Malachi Lawrence could be an ideal target for the Saints
Malachi Lawrence: Edge rusher, UCF
Malachi Lawrence is a premier edge rusher and is expected to be a day two selection. He pairs an amazing frame at 6 '4”, 247 pounds, and nearly 34 inch arms with the explosiveness to impact the game as a run defender and pass rusher. He’s an enticing option for teams needing to elevate their pass rush, which the Saints do. Lawrence would be a fantastic rusher opposite of Chase Young and is someone they should think about investing in.
Dontay Corleone: Nose tackle, Cincinnati
Dontay Corleone is the prototypical nose tackle who is a monster against the run. He has an interesting build at 6’0, 335 pounds, but has surprisingly elite burst. Corleone, otherwise known as “The Godfather” constantly penetrates the backfield and consistently beats the center off the snap. His first step quickness and natural leverage to avoid being moved makes him a spectacular option for a defensive coordinator looking to improve their run defense.
Jaeden Roberts: Guard, Alabama
The Saints are in dire need for reinforcements at guard. Cesar Ruiz and Dillon Radunz aren’t cutting it; it’s pivotal they protect Tyler Shough. One of the best options in the Shrine Bowl is former Alabama guard Jaeden Roberts. The 6’5”, 327 pound guard is an outstanding athlete and combines elite strength with impressive movement skills. He’s a potential mid-round option for the Saints during the draft.
Skyler Bell: Wide receiver, UCONN
Skyler Bell was one of the most dominant receivers in college football this year, being named a Biletnikoff award finalist. Bell had 102 receptions, 1,282 yards, and 13 touchdowns in 2025 and is expected to be a premier receiver at the Shrine Bowl. Be on the lookout for him to consistently torch defenders in 1-on-1 drills and raise his stock.
Demond Claiborne: Running back, Wake Forest
Demond Claiborne is lightning in a bottle. He has incredible speed and burst and is seemingly shot out of a cannon each time he touches the ball. The Shrine Bowl is huge for him, as he does have some concerns that need answering. For instance he has inconsistent hands as a receiver and ball security issues. However, if he answers these he could be an underrated running back during the draft.