Saints' 2025 Draft Class Ranked Among NFL's Best

Advanced metrics show New Orleans had one of the most productive rookie classes last season.

Jan. 28, 2026 at 3:23pm

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According to a recent analysis, the New Orleans Saints had one of the top-performing draft classes in the NFL in 2025. Using a snap-weighted PFF grading system, the Saints' rookie class ranked 4th in the league, behind only the Chicago Bears, Carolina Panthers, and Detroit Lions. This was part of a strong year for the NFC South division, with three of the four teams finishing in the top six.

Why it matters

The Saints' highly-graded 2025 draft class is a positive sign for the team's future, as several of those rookies look poised to become long-term starters and core pieces. Building through the draft is crucial for sustained success in the NFL, so this performance suggests New Orleans is well-positioned to compete in the coming years.

The details

The Saints' 2025 draft class was highlighted by players like Kelvin Banks Jr. and Tyler Shough, who appear to be building blocks for the future. Other selections like Jonas Sanker and Quincy Riley also graded well and could develop into intermediate starters. Across the division, the Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers, and Chicago Bears also had top-performing rookie classes, underscoring the strength of talent coming into the NFC South.

  • The 2025 NFL Draft took place in April 2025.
  • The 2025 NFL season was played from September 2025 through January 2026.

The players

Kelvin Banks Jr.

A top draft pick for the Saints in 2025 who looks to be a long-term starter.

Tyler Shough

Another 2025 Saints draft selection who has shown promise as a potential future starter.

Jonas Sanker

A 2025 Saints draft pick who graded well as a rookie and could develop into an intermediate starter.

Quincy Riley

A 2025 Saints draft pick who also received strong grades as a rookie.

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What’s next

The Saints will look to build on their strong 2025 draft class as they prepare for the 2026 NFL Draft, hoping to continue adding talented young players to their roster.

The takeaway

The Saints' highly-graded 2025 draft class is a promising sign for the team's future, as they appear to have found several potential long-term starters and core pieces through the draft. This performance, combined with a strong showing across the NFC South division, suggests the Saints are well-positioned to compete in the coming years.