Saints Eyeing Top Draft Prospects to Fill Key Needs

Tyler Shough shares thoughts on Caleb Downs and Carnell Tate as potential fits for New Orleans

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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The New Orleans Saints have had a productive offseason so far, adding key pieces like running back Travis Etienne Jr. and guard David Edwards. However, they still have needs at wide receiver, pass rush, and cornerback. With the 8th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, the Saints are eyeing prospects like Ohio State safety Caleb Downs and Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate as potential solutions to fill those holes.

Why it matters

The Saints are looking to build on their success and make a deep playoff run. Adding a high-impact player like Downs or Tate at #8 overall could be a game-changer for their defense or passing attack. Both prospects are seen as potential immediate starters who could elevate the Saints' roster.

The details

Downs is viewed as a versatile safety prospect with outstanding instincts and leadership qualities. NFL Network's Daniel Jeremiah praised his ability to play multiple roles in the secondary and excel against both the pass and run. Meanwhile, Tate is considered one of the top wide receiver prospects in the class, with the size, speed, and playmaking ability to be a difference-maker in the Saints' offense.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place in late April.

The players

Caleb Downs

A highly-touted safety prospect from Ohio State, Downs is ranked as the 8th-best player in the 2026 NFL Draft class by NFL Network's Daniel Jeremiah.

Carnell Tate

A standout wide receiver from Ohio State, Tate is considered one of the top pass-catching prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Tyler Shough

The starting quarterback for the New Orleans Saints, Shough shared his thoughts on Downs and Tate as potential fits for the team.

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What they’re saying

“We've got [Justin Reid]. We've got a good group. But who knows? You've got Caleb on the board, anything can happen.”

— Tyler Shough, New Orleans Saints Quarterback (Downs 2 Business Podcast)

What’s next

The Saints will continue to evaluate the top prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft class, with the 8th overall pick presenting an opportunity to add a game-changing player to their roster.

The takeaway

The Saints have had a productive offseason, but still have key needs to address. Selecting a top prospect like Caleb Downs or Carnell Tate at #8 overall could be a significant boost to their defense or passing attack, and help the team take the next step towards a deep playoff run.