The wait is over. The 2026 NFL Draft starts today, which means it’s time for a final New Orleans Saints seven-round mock draft. Caleb Downs is more than a fan favorite. He's who the Saints should be aiming to land.
This mock is meant to be predictive. It should emulate what the Saints are likely to do. Obviously it’s impossible to perfectly predict it, but this is my best attempt.
Having said that for one last time, here’s the final predictive seven-round mock draft for the Saints.
Caleb Downs is too good to
1:8- Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State
Caleb Downs and defensive coordinator Brandon Staley have had a close relationship for the past two years. This, paired with Downs’ elite IQ, technique, and versatility makes him a likely selection for the Saints. He’s arguably the best player in the entire draft and would be a franchise cornerstone on defense.Â
2:42- Chris Bell, WR, Louisville
Chris Bell to the Saints makes too much sense. His former teammate Tyler Shough has been persuading the front office to select him. Additionally, Bell is a perfect fit in the Saints offense, being a dynamic YAC threat. The torn ACL makes him risky, but he’s reportedly rehabbing well and should be good for the 2026 NFL season. Mickey Loomis shouldn’t be afraid to pull the trigger and add Bell on day two.
3:73- Jaishawn Barham, EDGE, Michigan
Jaishawn Barham wouldn’t have been a fit with Dennis Allen. However, he makes more sense for Brandon Staley. Barham, formerly a linebacker, moved to edge in week three of the 2025 season. Since then, he’s established himself as an explosive presence who wins with an elite first step and bend around the edge. He still needs to develop more pass-rush moves, but the tools are there to be an impactful presence.
Other selections
4:136- Charles Demmings, CB, Stephen F. Austin
5:150- Nate Boerkicher, TE, Texas A&M
5:172- Demond Claiborne, RB, Wake Forest
6:190- Cole Brevard, DT, Texas
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