Saints HC Kellen Moore shows faith in QB Tyler Shough and replaces franchise legend in latest 2-round 2026 NFL mock draft
This recent mock draft was a unique step forward for the Saints.
The New Orleans Saints remain in the top five picks for the 2026 NFL Draft as they enter their own bye week. Sitting at 2-8, there is some enthusiasm around the team after their strong performance against the Carolina Panthers in Week 10. Tyler Shough showed glimpses of why Kellen Moore was intrigued by him, and the defense stepped up on nearly every occasion.
In a recent mock draft here at A to Z Sports, the Saints were bold in round one, foregoing attacking the quarterback position with a premier selection. Then, they bounced back in round two to supply Shough with some pass catching help for the future.
Saints pass on QB in first round of 2026 NFL mock draft to pick Cam Jordan replacement
In the first round, the Saints grabbed a defensive prospect that has consistently sat in the top five selections throughout the college football season when it comes to mock drafts.
- New Orleans Saints: Reuben Bain Jr., EDGE, Miami
“New Orleans’ pass rush remains the biggest downfall of the defense. They desperately need to get Chase Young some assistance off the edge, and Bain checks that box. His start to the season was phenomenal, and his versatility could be the perfect addition up front for the Saints.” – A to Z Sports
Cameron Jordan could be playing in his final campaign this season. If that’s the case, the need for a pass rusher opposite of Chase Young is even more vital for the Saints to acquire next offseason. Bain can immediately step in and play a notable role as a rookie. Love his versatility coming out of Miami.
“You can have your concerns about the size profile. Rushers who offer power and leverage move the needle for me because they can compress the pocket and reduce angles to the quarterback. Bain offers that in bunches, and I think in some ways the compact build plays to his advantage as a result. I love the intensity he plays with as well. He may not be a one-size-fits-all rusher for every scheme, but he’s the kind of cat I’d go out of my way to make some accommodations for to free him up to be his best self.” – Kyle Crabbs, A to Z Sports
Saints add dynamic receiver in round two to help Tyler Shough
New Orleans Saints: Deion Burks, WR, Oklahoma – DeLeone
With their second-round pick, New Orleans takes a swing to help out their young QB. Burks dealt with an injury last season, but he has stayed available more consistently this season for the Sooners. He’s got a smaller frame but possesses incredible speed and explosiveness.
“Burks enters the conversation as a classic slot receiver whose calling card is creating separation through route-running precision and initial burst rather than winning contested catches. His ability to threaten defenses vertically while maintaining the quickness to operate underneath makes him an ideal fit for offenses that prioritize getting playmakers the ball in space.” — NFL Draft Buzz
I’d be interested in seeing Burks in a Kellen Moore unit, but the Saints do need more size at the position. Devaughn Vele will be an option next season, but his role has not been quite what some fans hoped for ahead of the campaign. Burks has unique potential and could fulfill a similar role as to what Rashid Shaheed did for them in recent seasons before getting dealt at this deadline.
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