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Saints Boost Tyler Shough's Receiving Corps with USC Star Makai Lemon
Daniel Jeremiah's latest 2026 NFL mock draft has New Orleans adding a dynamic playmaker to their offense.
Feb. 18, 2026 at 10:39pm
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In his latest 2026 NFL mock draft, NFL Media's Daniel Jeremiah has the New Orleans Saints selecting USC wide receiver Makai Lemon with the eighth overall pick. Jeremiah believes Lemon's physical play style and versatility will be a perfect fit for the Saints' offense led by quarterback Tyler Shough.
Why it matters
The Saints have several needs to address in the draft, but Jeremiah thinks adding a top receiving threat like Lemon could provide a major boost to Shough and the passing game. Lemon is a rising prospect who is expected to impress at the NFL Scouting Combine, potentially locking up a top-10 selection.
The details
Lemon, who is listed at 5-foot-11 and 195 pounds, had a standout junior season at USC, catching 79 passes for 1,156 yards and 11 touchdowns. He also showed his versatility by rushing for two scores and being a willing blocker. According to Pro Football Focus, Lemon ran routes from the slot 75.6% of the time, dropped just four passes on 183 targets, and averaged 6.8 yards after the catch.
- Lemon is coming off a 2025 junior season at USC where he had 79 receptions for 1,156 yards and 11 touchdowns.
- The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April.
The players
Makai Lemon
A wide receiver prospect from the University of Southern California who is expected to be a top-10 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Tyler Shough
The starting quarterback for the New Orleans Saints, who the team is looking to provide more offensive weapons for in the draft.
Kellen Moore
The offensive coordinator for the New Orleans Saints, who Jeremiah believes will know how to best utilize Lemon's versatile skill set.
What they’re saying
“The Saints inject a major boost to Tyler Shough's receiving corps. Kellen Moore will know exactly how to utilize Lemon's skills.”
— Daniel Jeremiah, NFL Media Analyst
What’s next
Lemon is expected to participate in the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine, where he will have the opportunity to showcase his athletic abilities and solidify his status as a top draft prospect.
The takeaway
By selecting Makai Lemon in the first round, the Saints would be providing a dynamic playmaker to complement Tyler Shough and the passing game. Lemon's physical style of play and versatility could make him an ideal fit in New Orleans' offense, as the team looks to build around their young quarterback.
