The New Orleans Saints are in a prime position to bolster their roster in the 2026 NFL Draft, especially with the eighth overall pick. This is a golden opportunity to support their promising second-year quarterback, Tyler Shough, who showed flashes of brilliance in his rookie season. The Saints are eyeing some top-tier talent, and the decision could shape their offensive future.
NFL draft guru Daniel Jeremiah has linked the Saints to two standout prospects: Notre Dame's dynamic running back Jeremiyah Love and USC's playmaking wide receiver Makai Lemon. Both players bring unique skills to the table, and either could be a game-changer for the Saints.
Jeremiah initially connected the Saints with Love, a running back who could rejuvenate New Orleans' struggling ground game. However, his second mock draft saw him pivot to Lemon, highlighting the potential for an explosive partnership with Shough.
"Makai Lemon would be a perfect fit," Jeremiah noted. "He's a versatile receiver who can thrive in the middle of the field and isn't afraid to mix it up in the run game.
He'd provide easy completions for a young quarterback and could be a reliable target for years."
The decision between Love and Lemon isn't just about immediate impact; it's about setting the stage for sustained success. Jeremiah explained, "When the team is poised to make a playoff run, adding a running back like Love could be the final piece. But right now, pairing Shough with Lemon could be the start of something special, a duo that grows together over the next decade."
The Saints' strategy will also depend on their moves in free agency. Strengthening the offensive line or adding other pass-catchers could influence whether they lean towards Love or Lemon.
With Alvin Kamara nearing the end of his contract and the Saints' run game needing a spark, Love could be the answer. But the allure of a dynamic receiving duo with Lemon and Chris Olave is hard to overlook.
As the draft approaches, New Orleans faces a pivotal choice. Whether they opt for a receiver or a rusher, the goal remains clear: equip Shough with the tools he needs to lead the Saints back to prominence in the NFC South.