The New Orleans Saints are making moves ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft, reportedly holding a private workout for Illinois guard Josh Gesky. With a keen eye on bolstering their interior offensive line, the Saints seem to be exploring all options.
Gesky’s stats from last season paint a picture of reliability and skill. Allowing just one sack and 12 pressures over 456 pass-blocking snaps, and committing only a single penalty across 849 total offensive snaps, he’s proven himself to be a formidable presence on the field. His consistent performance earned him All-Big Ten honorable mention honors in three of his four seasons, and his recent Pro Day only added to his growing reputation.
At Illinois’ Pro Day, Gesky impressed with a 4.94-second 40-yard dash, a 7.82-second three-cone drill, and a 4.72-second short shuttle. His athletic prowess was further highlighted by a 9-foot-1 broad jump, a 33-inch vertical, and 30 bench press reps at the combine standard of 225 pounds.
The Manteno, IL native’s standout performances have caught the attention of several teams. He’s already engaged with the Denver Broncos, with another meeting on the horizon, and has also visited the Detroit Lions, Houston Texans, and New Orleans Saints.
As the draft approaches, Gesky’s stock is on the rise, and it’s clear why teams across the league are eager to see what he can bring to their rosters. The Saints, in particular, could find his skills and tenacity a perfect fit for their offensive line strategy.