Notre Dame cornerback Leonard Moore is viewed as a premier player in college football and is a potential option for the New Orleans Saints in the 2027 NFL Draft. In Bleacher Report’s way too early mock draft, Brent Sobleski projected the pairing. Although it’s still early, Moore’s combination of size, athleticism, and technique make him an enticing selection and an ideal fit in Brandon Staley’s defense.
“Moore has the size, length, coverage skills and dominance through his first two collegiate seasons to warrant such a high standard,” Sobleski wrote. “The only reason he's still available here is due to a top-heavy quarterback class. Otherwise, Moore could easily be a top-five pick and still may be when it's all said and done.”
The six-foot-two, 195-pound true junior had an outstanding 2025 campaign with five interceptions, seven pass breakups, and a 45.9 passer rating when targeted. His elite frame and superb athleticism, particularly his long-speed and short-area quickness, lets him match up against a variety of receiver archetypes. Additionally, his amazing footwork and technique makes him a shutdown corner in press coverage and zone. He’s a scheme versatile prospect who would thrive in Staley’s defense.
Leonard Moore would fill arguably the biggest positional need for the Saints.
Cornerback is viewed with skepticism for the Saints heading into 2026. Kool-Aid McKinstry is the clear first option, but the depth behind him is questionable. Second-year player Quincy Riley is projected to be a starter, but he’s still an unproven commodity. As a result, investing significant capital in the group next offseason would be wise.
Barring any major changes in 2026, Moore would instantly be the number one cornerback on defense. Obviously, it’s way too early to say anything definitive, as plenty will change; however, he’s trending towards being a blue chip prospect. He’s the exact player that Staley’s defense needs to elevate them to the next level and establish the Saints as a playoff contender.
If it isn't a cornerback in the first, it's likely an edge rusher. Those are the two positions where it feels like the Saints are most likely to target because of potential need and positional value. Sobleski went with Moore, and it could just as easily be Colin Simmons. How this year unfolds will determine a lot for next year's draft.
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