The New Orleans Saints’ 2025 draft class is held in high regard, but Vernon Broughton has become a forgotten player due to simply not being present. As a result, Saints fans have dismissed him from a potential starting role heading into 2026. Despite this, the defensive tackle is in an excellent spot to compete for snaps and could have a stellar sophomore campaign.
The Saints selected Broughton in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft. At the time, this pick was met with skepticism, which only grew when he missed his rookie season with a hip injury. However, he’s fully healthy heading into training camp and is primed for a turnaround year.
Brandon Staley’s defense needs a breakout star at defensive tackle. Bryan Bresee has flashed immense potential, but needs to develop as a run defender. Beyond this, they don’t have another established threat. Thus, opening a door for Broughton.
Vernon Broughton will have a major role in the Saints’ defense.
It’s important to note that a starting, or even rotational, role isn’t a foregone conclusion. Broughton will have to battle for every snap against Bresee, second-round pick Christen Miller, and veterans Davon Godcheaux and Nathan Shepherd. This will make training camp and the preseason crucial to solidify himself as a major contributor.
However, Broughton’s big-play ability because of his elite first step and three-down potential instantly gives him an advantage. He’s still working on his consistency, but will undoubtedly make multiple flashy plays, which will separate Broughton from the competition. Because of this, don’t be surprised to frequently hear this in the coming weeks.
As aforementioned, Vernon Broughton has a point to prove this offseason. He’s been written off by many fans because of a disappointing end to his rookie season, but he has the chance to change that in 2026. Broughton would add an explosive presence to the Saints’ defensive line and add another three-down impactful player.
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