Saints Shift Focus in 2026 NFL Draft Plans
The New Orleans Saints are poised for a significant pivot as they prepare for the 2026 NFL Draft, a move that could reshape their future. With the trade deadline behind them, the franchise appears to be reconsidering its priorities, particularly in the wake of a tumultuous quarterback situation.
Quarterback Quandary
Entering the season, the Saints faced a gaping void at the quarterback position after the retirement of Derek Carr. This departure left the team with two largely untested options: Spencer Rattler and Tyler Shough. Rattler, who began the season as the starter, showed flashes of promise during the initial weeks. However, his inconsistent performance ultimately led to his replacement by rookie Shough, who has since taken command of the offense.
Shough is expected to maintain his starting role for the remainder of the season, barring any unexpected developments. This quarterback shuffle has fueled speculation that the Saints would target a quarterback in the early rounds of the upcoming draft.
Drafting Dilemmas
However, the current draft class lacks the depth and star power at quarterback seen in previous years. As a result, the Saints find themselves at a crossroads. In a surprising turn of events, The Athletic’s Nick Baumgardner has suggested that the Saints may instead opt for a defensive standout rather than a signal caller with their first-round selection.
Defensive Star on the Horizon
Baumgardner has projected that the Saints will set their sights on Keldric Faulk, the standout defensive end from Auburn. Faulk’s abilities on the field have garnered attention, and his selection would mark a shift in strategy for a franchise that has been grappling with its quarterback decisions.
As the Saints navigate their way through the rest of the season and look ahead to the draft, the focus appears to be shifting from finding a new face under center to bolstering their defense with a potential game-changer like Faulk. This decision could redefine their approach and set the foundation for future success in New Orleans.
