Saints Can Fill Biggest Need at 8th Overall Pick in 2026 NFL Draft

New Orleans has multiple top WR prospects to choose from with their first-round selection.

Mar. 15, 2026 at 12:55am

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The New Orleans Saints have filled multiple key needs this offseason through free agency, including signing running back Travis Etienne Jr. and left guard David Edwards. However, the team's biggest remaining need is at wide receiver, and they have a prime opportunity to address that by selecting one of the top WR prospects with the 8th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Why it matters

The Saints' passing attack struggled at times last season, and adding a dynamic WR2 to pair with Chris Olave could take their offense to the next level. With several top-tier wide receiver prospects projected to be available at #8, the Saints have a chance to land a game-changing talent to complement their existing offensive weapons.

The details

According to reports, the Saints' top remaining need is at wide receiver. Prospects like Carnell Tate, Jordyn Tyson, and Makai Lemon are all expected to be in the mix for the Saints' first-round selection. Tate had a standout season at Ohio State, recording 875 yards and 9 touchdowns, while Lemon put up 1,156 yards and 11 scores for USC. Tyson was also productive for Arizona State, tallying 711 yards and 8 TDs. The Saints should have their pick of at least one of these talented young receivers at #8 overall.

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

The players

Tyler Shough

The Saints' new franchise quarterback.

David Edwards

The Saints' free agent signing at left guard.

Travis Etienne Jr.

The Saints' free agent signing at running back.

Carnell Tate

A top wide receiver prospect expected to be available for the Saints at #8 overall.

Jordyn Tyson

A talented wide receiver prospect who could be an option for the Saints in the first round.

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What they’re saying

“By signing Etienne, running back is no longer a need early in the draft and could leave open receiver options like Carnell Tate, Jordyn Tyson, or Makai Lemon.”

— Larry Holder, Writer (The Athletic)

What’s next

The Saints will evaluate the top wide receiver prospects leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft and determine which player best fits their offense at #8 overall.

The takeaway

With their biggest need addressed through the draft, the Saints have a chance to add a game-changing wide receiver talent to pair with their new franchise quarterback and solidify their passing attack for the future.