The New Orleans Saints are sitting at a crossroads heading into the 2026 NFL Draft. Armed with the No. 8 overall pick, they have a few different paths they can take - each with its own risks and rewards. And while the franchise has a history of bold moves, especially when it comes to the draft, this year’s decision could shape the next phase of their rebuild.
Let’s break down the three primary scenarios on the table for New Orleans - and what each could mean for a team still searching for stability.
Scenario 1: Trading Up - Risky Business or Strategic Strike?
Saints fans know this feeling all too well: the front office eyeing a move up the board, and the collective anxiety that comes with it. History hasn’t exactly been kind to New Orleans in this department.
The Marcus Davenport trade in 2018 - when the team gave up two first-rounders to move up - still lingers as a cautionary tale. That deal not only failed to deliver long-term impact, but it also cost the Saints valuable capital during a window when they were legitimate contenders.
So why even consider it again?
Well, this year’s draft class is a bit different. There’s a general consensus that the top-tier talent isn’t as deep as usual, which could lead to teams being more open to moving down. That opens the door for a team like the Saints to make a move - potentially without paying the kind of premium we’ve seen in past years.
If New Orleans identifies a player they believe is a difference-maker - think linebacker Arvell Reese or edge rusher Ruben Bain - the argument for going up and getting their guy gains some traction. But even in a weaker draft, moving up still comes at a cost, and for a team with multiple needs, surrendering picks could be a tough pill to swallow.
Scenario 2: Trading Down - A Sensible Move That Never Happens
Every year, the idea of the Saints trading down gets floated. And every year, it doesn’t happen.
But this time, it might actually make the most sense.
With the 2026 class lacking star power, especially at quarterback, the Saints could find themselves in a situation where their top targets are off the board by the time they’re on the clock. If that happens, moving back and stockpiling picks - both for this year and potentially for 2027, which is already being talked about as a stronger draft class - could be a smart play.
This team needs talent across the board. Trading down gives them more swings at the plate.
More chances to hit on contributors. More flexibility to address multiple areas of need.
It’s a strategy that aligns with where the Saints are as a franchise - trying to rebuild a roster that’s lacked depth in recent years. The only question is whether Mickey Loomis and the front office are finally ready to pull the trigger on a move they’ve long talked about but never executed.
Scenario 3: Standing Pat - Betting on the Board to Break Their Way
The Saints haven’t always been known for patience on draft night, but in recent years, staying put has actually paid off. Two years ago, they landed right tackle Taliese Fuaga.
Last year, it was left tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. Both picks have looked like foundational pieces - the kind of hits you need in the first round.
So why not do it again?
At No. 8, there’s a real chance a high-impact player falls into their lap. Running back Jeremiyah Love and safety Caleb Downs are two names that could be available, and both would fill immediate needs while bringing star-level potential to the roster.
If the Saints believe they can land a cornerstone without giving up assets or gambling on a trade back, staying put might be the safest - and smartest - option. In a draft where the top-end talent is limited, securing one of the few true difference-makers could be the kind of move that accelerates the rebuild.
Bottom Line: A Franchise-Defining Decision Awaits
The Saints are in a pivotal spot. Whether they move up, trade down, or stay at No. 8, the 2026 draft represents a chance to reshape the roster and set a new direction for the future.
This team has made bold moves before - some that worked, others that didn’t. But with a top-10 pick in hand and a roster that still needs an infusion of talent, the Saints can’t afford to miss. Whether that means swinging for a top prospect, accumulating more picks, or trusting the board to fall their way, the pressure is on.
And come draft night, all eyes will be on New Orleans to see which path they choose.