Saints 2026 draft position after Week 9: NFL 3-round Mock Draft Edition

With the New Orleans Saints’ loss last week to the Buccaneers, they currently have the top pick in the draft. The Saints may stay here by the end of the season, but there’s also a chance this is the only time this season that New Orleans is selecting here, so I wanted to have some fun with it and do a 3-round mock draft.

Here we go!

Round 1: Ohio State Edge/LB Arvell Reese

Reasons why this pick makes sense for the Saints

• Reese has become one of the best defensive players in the country
• Is a game wrecker off the edge
  • Uses power, arm length, and speed
  • Still needs to improve pass rush moves, but shows development already
• Fits in a 3-4 scheme as OLB
  • Saints DC Brandon Staley is missing that in his defense
• Can drop back into coverage well
• A great run defender
• His floor is an excellent off-ball linebacker

Round 2: Penn State OG Olaivavega Ioane

Reasons why this pick makes sense for the Saints

• Can play RG or LG
• Extremely difficult to push
• Can win against speed, more technical, and power rushers
• Excellent in pass protection
• Not athletic, but can still move
• A decent run blocker, but could improve
• Saints may have to find two new guards this offseason
• The current offensive line is already missing power on the inside

Round 3: USC WR Ja’Kobi Lane

Reasons why this pick makes sense for the Saints

• Is the definition of a contested catch threat
  • The Saints are very much missing that
• Can defeat defenders with route running
• Speed is not the best, but it is also not horrible
• Can adjust to any throw and make a big play
• If New Orleans does trade one of their WRs, the need for another pass catcher skyrockets
• Would be a great compliment with Chris Olave
• The perfect weapon for a young QB to rely on