2026 Expectations for the Saints’ 2025 Draft Class

Around this time last season, the New Orleans Saints' 2025 draft class had some expectations, but nowhere near the impact it actually had during the season.

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This class completely changed the future for the Saints. Kelvin Banks Jr. is arguably the best offensive lineman on the roster, Tyler Shough took over as the starter and was in the run for Rookie of the Year, Vernon Broughton showed some positive things when he played (even though it was very limited), Jonas Sanker was one of the most consistent players on defense, Danny Stutsman played himself onto the field, Quincy Riley became a starter quickly at CB, and Devin Neal had some excellent moments and was the best blocker in the Saints' RB room. TE Moliki Matavao and EDGE Fadil Diggs did not make the most impact, but are still on the roster. 

Clearly, 2025 was a good year for most of these players, but what will 2026 look like?

Kelvin Banks Jr. 

Out of the entire Saints' 2025 draft class, Banks Jr. has the most secure spot. It would have to be truly horrible for him to lose his job, and even if that happens, it's still super low odds that this would be the outcome. Last season, he showed enough to secure the LT spot, and now, he has a chance to become one of the best tackles in the NFL. 

Tyler Shough

Once Shough was given the starting job, the hope was that he could secure it, and that's what happened. Now, with a full offseason of practice, involvement in the community, and an improved offense, Shough should be able to have an even better year in 2026. 

Vernon Broughton

Broughton's impact on the 2025 season was extremely limited, but that should change in 2026. The Saints have high hopes for the DT, and in a wide-open room, he has a path to becoming a really important player for the team. It will all depend on his health.

Jonas Sanker

Out of the entire draft class, Sanker may have the best odds of taking the biggest jump in 2026. He is set to move into the slot role of Brandon Staley's scheme, which could utilize his tackling ability. There is also a chance Sanker struggles, which is why the move is a bit of a risk. 

Quincy Riley

Riley was a pretty good CB for the Saints last season, which was a bit of a surprise given how quickly it happened, but, interestingly, his role may diminish this season. The Saints signed Martin Emerson in free agency, and he could step in right away as CB2. Riley may be able to win that battle, but if not, an injury in front of him could be his only way to start outside. 

Devin Neal 

The Saints signed Travis Etienne this offseason, and Alvin Kamara is still on the roster, so those two should be the top options at RB. That leaves two more spots, and although Devin Neal should be one of those, it's not a guarantee, especially against Audric Estime and Kendre Miller.

Moliki Matavao and Fadil Diggs

Although both Matavao and Diggs are still on the roster, there's a chance they get cut at the 53-man roster deadline. The Saints have players ahead of them, so both would have to impress the staff. 

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