In recent years, the New Orleans Saints have had a good streak of draft classes, especially in the first round. Two years ago, they went with RT Taliese Fuaga, and last year, LT Kelvin Banks Jr. Great selections, but they must continue that trend in 2026.

This roster needs more talent, and at pick #8 in the first round, the Saints have options, though there are scenarios where New Orleans may be willing to move its pick.

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Yes, yes, I know, the Saints trading up? Again? I understand not trusting GM Mickey Loomis to trade up and select the guy they want; the history is really not great.

Saints fans around the world are scarred by the team trading away two first-round picks to get Marcus Davenport. It’s something that set this team back, and the 2018 roster could have been even better if the deal hadn’t been made.

With that in mind, again, it’s understandable why a trade-up sounds like a horrible idea; this draft is a bit different. Teams may be more willing to trade back than usual due to the lack of top-end talent, and if the Saints view a player as a top pick, it could prompt them to trade up at a lower price. Some prospects like LB Arvell Reese or EDGE Ruben Bain come to mind as options.

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Still, trading up is going to be expensive, and the Saints may be better off keeping their assets.

This option is something the Saints have not done much of. Every year, fans, reporters, and even Loomis speak on the idea of trading back. Everybody agrees that it would be a good move for a rebuilding team like the Saints, but it just never materializes. This year is no different.

The 2026 Draft is considered weak, not just because of the QB position. There are not many first-round picks in this class, and if the Saints believe all of their top options are gone before 8 (which would be a surprise), then moving back would be an excellent decision. Loading up on more picks to fix positions while also possibly getting picks in 2027, which is a better draft, would set this team up really well.

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As I mentioned with the Saints’ last two drafts, staying put in the first round worked. They may not need to do anything crazy, and once again, have a great player fall into their laps. There is a great chance, at the time of writing this, that a player like RB Jeremiyah Love or SAF Caleb Downs will be available at 8.

Staying put is the best decision.