The New Orleans Saints have had an impressive offseason thus far but still have significant holes on their roster. Luckily for them, the 2026 NFL Draft’s strengths are perfectly aligned with their biggest needs. Lance Zierlein at NFL.com ranked the eleven position groups in order of strongest to weakest in a recent article. This list shows how the Saints lucked out and are in the perfect position to have a well-rounded roster heading into 2026.
This isn’t known as an elite draft class. However, the top five positions Zierlein listed, edge, linebacker, interior offensive line, wide receiver, and cornerback are all stacked. This benefits the Saints as they need to address these groups instead of the lower graded spots, quarterback and offensive tackle. Other teams will undoubtedly reach on the latter options, which will allow the Saints their choice of the litter.
It won’t be broadcast on the national stage, but the Saints are in prime position to nail the draft in April because of the aforementioned traits.
Saints needs line up with the the NFL Draft's strengths
The Saints don’t have any dire positions of need that they must address early in the draft. Obviously they should select one of the groups previously listed, but one doesn’t stand out as a necessary round one selection. This gives them maximum flexibility and lets Mickey Loomis select the best player available instead of reaching for a position.
This is the ideal spot to be. They can analyze the board and feel comfortable wherever they are picking, which can also open the door to trading back if they don’t love the options.
This shows how much a team’s and fans perspective can change throughout the season. Midway through 2025, while the Saints were struggling, people were widely criticizing the roster and saying the team had many desperate needs. Now, fans are thinking the opposite and still aren’t satisfied, but optimistic for the future.
Overall, the Saints couldn’t be in a better position during the 2026 NFL Draft. Their biggest positional needs directly align with the strengths of the class. They have maximum flexibility and can select the best player available instead of reaching for someone.