Defensive tackle is a major need for the New Orleans Saints, which is why Domonique Orange is an ideal selection on day two of the 2026 NFL Draft. His elite run stopping ability would perfectly complement Bryan Bresee and create a dynamic tandem from the interior.
The Saints’ defense gave up 120.6 rushing yards per game, which ranked in the bottom half of the NFL. There were flashes of excellence, where the team shut down the opposition, but that wasn’t often enough. More commonly, the Saints were gashed and frequently gave up big plays. These struggles stem from a questionable defensive tackle group, which they must fix this offseason.
The Saints have taken big swings at the position before. They drafted Bryan Bressee Bresee with the 29th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. Since, he’s been solid, particularly as a pass rusher. He’s totalled 14.5 career sacks in his three seasons and has been a dynamic presence from the interior. Although he’s grown as a run defender, it’s still his weak spot. As a result, it makes sense to pair him with a run stuffer, which is why adding Orange would be ideal.
Domonique Orange’s prowess against the run makes him an ideal fit on the Saints
Orange, otherwise known as “Big Citrus”, is superb against the run. The six-foot-two, 322 pound monster uses his superhuman strength to dominate opposing lineman. Even if someone manages to get their arms on Orange, he utilizes his violent hand usage to stack and shed - effortlessly flying into the backfield.
Additionally, Orange is surprisingly agile, especially laterally, which helps him instantly penetrate the backfield. Linemen can’t get out of their stances fast enough, which gives him a free lane to the ball carrier. He frequently splits blocks and blows up plays.
Orange’s early down prowess gives him a high floor, but his lack of productivity as a pass rusher limits his ceiling. He doesn’t have any established moves, thus causing his rushes to become stagnant. He likely won’t contribute in this area for the foreseeable future in the NFL. However, the Saints don’t need him to. They already have their pass rusher in Bresee.
Overall, Domonique Orange and Bryan Bresee would be an ideal pairing on the Saints defensive line. They complement each other's weaknesses and would form a well-rounded dynamic pairing. The Saints shouldn’t hesitate to add Orange on day two. They need to improve their run defense, which is where he thrives.
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