The college football and NFL seasons are nearly over, pending the Super Bowl, which means all eyes are turned towards the 2026 NFL Draft. New Orleans Saints fans should begin to familiarize themselves with potential targets; there’s no better way for that than with a four-round mock draft.
The Senior Bowl wrapped up this week, and a main focus of this mock draft was showcasing players who stood out. In total, four of the five prospects below competed in the event. As a reminder, the Saints had seven members of their staff as coaches and several scouts/front office people in Mobile, AL. Them drafting at least four players from this event is a possibility.
Having said that, it’s time to get into a four-round post-Senior Bowl mock draft.
Carnell Tate is a perfect fit in Kellen Moore's offense
1:8- Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State
The hype around Carnell Tate to the Saints has been building. He told the Down 2 Downs Podcast that Tyler Shough was one of the quarterbacks he wanted to play with the most. Tate would be a perfect complement to Chris Olave as a big-bodied, contested catch receiver who can work the middle of the field.
Analysts have questions if Tate can be the primary receiver in the offense; luckily for the Saints, he wouldn’t have to be. Any of the receivers would be a spectacular draft pick at number eight, but Tate might be the best fit.
2:42- Zion Young, EDGE, Missouri
Zion Young was already on the Saints radar before the Senior Bowl, but climbed up the rankings with his elite performance. He ended up winning the American Team Player of the Game and was arguably the best player in Mobile. The 6’5”, 262-pound defensive end is a monster in the run game and has a high pass rush upside. He still needs some refinement, but Young has the tools to be a dominant defender opposite of Chase Young for years to come.
3:73- Darrell Jackson Jr., Defensive tackle, Florida State
Darrell Jackson Jr. was a late addition to the Senior Bowl roster, yet he still stood out with his impressive frame and athleticism. The 6’5”, 328-pound nose tackle has an unheralded 7’2” wingspan. For reference, 2025 NBA first-round pick Yang Hansen, who is a 7’1” center, has the same wingspan. Jackson Jr. pairs this freakish frame with immense power and an amazing first step. Similar to Zion Young, he needs some development, especially as a pass rusher, but he has the potential to be a game-changing player.
4:132- Keylan Rutledge- Guard, Georgia Tech
Offensive guard is the Saints biggest need this offseason; a quick fix would be selecting Keylan Rutledge early on day three. Rutledge embodies a tough, offensive linemen. He is relentless while blocking, frequently playing until after the whistle.
Rutledge is outstanding as a run blocker and has the mobility to reach the second level. He was clearly one of the best offensive lineman in Mobile and answered a lot of questions about him being scheme-specific in Georgia Tech’s scheme. Rutledge still needs improvement as a pass protector, but would be a day-one starter for the Saints.
4:137- Tyren Montgomery- Wide Receiver, John Carroll
Tyren Montgomery was the biggest winner from the Senior Bowl. He was virtually unheard of heading into the event, getting added to the roster days before it started. Regardless of this, he has a legitimate case of being the best receiver there. Montgomery showcased his elite burst and athleticism.
Montgomery an impressive route runner and is someone who will likely keep rising up draft boards as more scouts watch him. There’s no reason the Saints shouldn’t double-dip at wide receiver during the draft; Montgomery would be a perfect fit and elevate their offense.