The NFL Combine is quickly approaching as prospects report to Indianapolis on February 23. This means that all eyes are shifting towards the 2026 NFL Draft. The New Orleans Saints had an elite 2025 class; now it’s time to show fans it wasn’t a fluke and that they can replicate it.
Unlike normal, this mock draft doesn't have a particular theme besides improving the team. Each of these picks address a position of need, while still selecting one of the best players on the board.
With that said, it’s time to get into another four-round mock draft for the Saints.
The injury concerns are real… but Jordyn Tyson is too good to pass up
1:8- Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State
The conversations around Jordyn Tyson are exclusively about his lengthy injury history. However, people are beginning to forget how dynamic of a prospect he is when healthy. He should be a target for the Saints at pick eight if his medicals turn out positive when team doctors examine him at the NFL Combine.
Tyson is a smooth criminal when he’s on the field. The former Sun Devil has long strides that eat up ground and allow him to torch defenders deep. Additionally, he’s a fantastic route runner and has a high IQ that results in him consistently being open, regardless if it’s man or zone coverage. Tyson would be a fantastic fit in the Saints offense and would pair with Chris Olave to give young quarterback Tyler Shough an explosive receiving tandem.Â
2:42- D’Angelo Ponds, CB, Indiana
Indiana cornerback D’Angelo Ponds is severely undersized, but makes up for it with his technique, athleticism, and competitiveness. The 5-foot-9, 173 pound corner has excellent technique from the moment the ball is snapped until it hits the ground. He has impressive mirroring ability because of his elite footwork and athleticism.
Receivers are unable to run away from Ponds because of his elite short-area quickness and long speed. What separates Ponds from the typical cornerback is his competitiveness. He never backs down from an opponent and is always seeking the ball. He would be a fantastic fit in the Saints defense, whether that’s on the outside or in the slot.
3:73- Jaishawn Barham- EDGE, Michigan
The Saints need to improve their pass rush opposite of Chase Young this offseason, which makes Jaishawn Barham an attractive option. The former Wolverine used to be a linebacker before converting to a full-time edge in week three of last season. Despite still being raw rushing the passer, his elite burst and athleticism was on full display, leading to four sacks on the season. He’s not a polished product, but is an intriguing option who could develop into a star.
4:132- Beau Stephens- Guard, Iowa
Beau Stephens was one of the best offensive lineman in the country last year. He didn’t allow a sack and only gave up four pressures all year. This gave him an impressive 91.6 pass blocking grade by PFF, which ranks him second in the NCAA. Stephens would instantly elevate the Saints offensive line and give them a potential day-one starter.
4:137- Lewis Bond- WR, Boston College
Lewis Bond didn’t receive an invite to the NFL Combine, but is still worthy of this selection. The 5-foot-11, 190 pound slot receiver is nearly impossible to keep up with due to his elite twitchiness and short-area burst. He has a knack for finding soft spots in a defense and is constantly open for the quarterback. He doesn’t have elite speed, but doesn’t need it with how he plays.