Skip to main content
Come Fan with UsSunday, June 21, 2026

New Orleans Saints NFL Draft WarRoom

Mocking the Draft wants to introduce you to an new article series taking a closer look at each team’s draft workings. The WarRoom articles will give you a glimpse at the recent draft history and the decision-making structure of each NFL team. We will also include our thoughts about the structure and draft history.

Offensive Scheme: New Orleans has one of the most dynamic offenses in the NFL and that won't change anytime soon. Sean Payton does a terrific job creating mismatches and getting a ton of playmakers on the field. The offense is more balanced than you might imagine as the running game is a big part of their success. The running game figures to be improved after the draft day addition of Mark Ingram. The future of this offense is still very bright as they figure to be among the top scorers in the league.

Defensive Scheme: Greg Williams is back with this super aggressive defense that looks to bring more pressure than ever. He has a few more toys to play with due to the additions of Cameron Jordan, Martez Wilson, and Johnny Patrick. These additions and the return of several other players gives the defense hope for improvement. The unit will always take risks in order to create pressure and create turnovers. It is a 4-3 base but has a lot of different looks intended to confuse the offense.

Thoughts: The Saints have done a great job building through the draft. They have hit on several big time late round prospects such has Jahri Evans, Carl Nicks, Marques Colston, and Jermon Bushrod. This group includes 3 of the 5 starting offensive linemen with Evans and Nicks being among the best interior lineman in the league. This franchise has done a great job balancing team need and value. They are not afraid to make a move to get a player they love as evidence by the trade to acquire Mark Ingram. The coaching staff is a key to the drafting success as they are able to find roles for the players. The decision makers can feel comfortable selecting the best player available knowing that no matter the shape of the depth chart they will see playing time.

Five-year record: 49- 31

Coach: Sean Payton

GM: Mickey Loomis

Recent Draft History: Click Here to see the complete draft history

Best Pick: Jahri Evans

Worst Pick: Reggie Bush

Mocking the Draft
SB Nation NFL mock draft: Eagles stick with what works; invest in the trenchesSB Nation NFL mock draft: Eagles stick with what works; invest in the trenches
Mocking the Draft

This player should be a plug-and-play replacement for Mekhi Becton right off the bat.

By Michael Peterson
Mocking the Draft
SB Nation NFL mock draft: Chiefs get an absolute steal of a WR at No. 31SB Nation NFL mock draft: Chiefs get an absolute steal of a WR at No. 31
Mocking the Draft

This guy’s got talent, plus playing with Patrick Mahomes automatically elevates his potential.

By Michael Peterson
Mocking the Draft
SB Nation NFL mock draft: Bills fill biggest need with a top CB at No. 30SB Nation NFL mock draft: Bills fill biggest need with a top CB at No. 30
Mocking the Draft

He’s a bit of a liability in the run game, but his potential in the pass game was enough for Buffalo Rumblings.

By Michael Peterson
Mocking the Draft
SB Nation NFL mock draft: Commanders give Jayden Daniels a fluid playmaker at WR with No. 29 pickSB Nation NFL mock draft: Commanders give Jayden Daniels a fluid playmaker at WR with No. 29 pick
Mocking the Draft

This pick could help the Commanders build on last year’s excellent season.

By Michael Peterson
Mocking the Draft
SB Nation NFL mock draft: Lions bring in a pass-rushing partner in crime for Aidan HutchinsonSB Nation NFL mock draft: Lions bring in a pass-rushing partner in crime for Aidan Hutchinson
Mocking the Draft

It’s a high-potential pick for a Detroit defense that needs a solid pass rusher.

By Michael Peterson
Mocking the Draft
SB Nation NFL mock draft: Rams keep building defensive identity at No. 26SB Nation NFL mock draft: Rams keep building defensive identity at No. 26
Mocking the Draft

This rookie would be a great complement to Jared Verse and Byron Young.

By Michael Peterson