The 2026 NFL Draft is heating up, and Daniel Jeremiah's latest mock draft has the New Orleans Saints making waves with their potential pick. Slotted at the 8th overall spot, the Saints are eyeing Texas Tech's standout EDGE rusher, David Bailey.
Bailey's 2025 season was nothing short of spectacular. He racked up 14.5 sacks and 19.5 tackles for loss, showcasing his ability to disrupt offenses consistently.
But it wasn't just his on-field production that turned heads. At the combine, Bailey put on a show, clocking a blazing 4.5 in the 40-yard dash, leaping 10’9” in the broad jump, and soaring with a 35” vertical.
This combination of stats and athleticism paints the picture of a truly dynamic pass rusher.
Initially projected as high as the 2nd overall pick, Bailey's stock has seen some fluctuation. Despite this, he remains a fascinating prospect, and his potential landing with the Saints at 8th overall could be a game-changer.
The slight dip in Bailey's projection is partly due to the rise of other talents like Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles and Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love. Both have been linked to the Saints in various mock drafts, adding layers of intrigue to New Orleans' draft strategy.
The Saints are in a pivotal position, especially with their defense in transition. While Chase Young has emerged as a formidable force on the edge, the departure of seasoned veteran Cameron Jordan to free agency leaves a void. New Orleans has been busy bolstering its offense, but the draft offers a prime opportunity to reinforce Brandon Staley’s defensive unit.
Jeremiah's mock draft suggests a focus on selecting the best available talent, and Bailey fits that mold perfectly. With a pressing need for a pass rusher and a top-10 pick in hand, the Saints could very well find their next defensive cornerstone in David Bailey. If he's still on the board, New Orleans might just strike gold with this selection.