New Orleans Saints Select Pass Rusher David Bailey in 2026 NFL Mock Draft

The Saints look to bolster their defense with a high-ceiling edge rusher in the first round.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 4:36am

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A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting a football player in the act of rushing the passer, with sharp geometric planes in the Saints' team colors of navy blue, gold, and white.The Saints' selection of pass rusher David Bailey aims to fortify their defense and create more opportunities for their young quarterback.New Orleans Today

In a Bleeding Green Nation community mock draft, the New Orleans Saints selected pass rusher David Bailey from Texas Tech with the 8th overall pick. The Saints are looking to build on their 5-1 finish last season under new offensive coordinator Kellen Moore, and Bailey is seen as a player who can make an immediate impact on the defense and help set up young quarterback Tyler Shough for success.

Why it matters

The Saints are in a position to potentially win the NFC South division with a last-place schedule and a strong draft, so this pick is crucial to solidifying their roster and taking the next step. Bailey is viewed as a high-ceiling edge rusher who can be a cornerstone defensive player for the Saints for years to come.

The details

At 6'3" and 260 lbs, David Bailey had 14.5 sacks last season for Texas Tech and impressed at the NFL Combine with his athleticism. He is projected as an every-down player at the next level due to his relentless motor, pass-rush repertoire, and elite first step. While slightly undersized, Bailey's game-wrecking ability is expected to translate directly to the NFL.

  • Bailey recorded 14.5 sacks for Texas Tech in the 2025 college football season.
  • Bailey had a standout performance at the 2026 NFL Combine in March.

The players

David Bailey

A 6'3", 260 lb edge rusher from Texas Tech who recorded 14.5 sacks in 2025 and impressed at the 2026 NFL Combine.

Kellen Moore

The new offensive coordinator for the New Orleans Saints, who is looking to build on the team's 5-1 finish in his first season.

Tyler Shough

The Saints' young quarterback who they are hoping to set up for success with this draft pick and other offseason moves.

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What they’re saying

“Having your top edge rusher and your QB simultaneously on rookie deals frees up cap resources to fill out the rest of the roster.”

— Brandon Lee Gowton, Author

What’s next

The Saints will look to continue building around Tyler Shough and their young core on both offense and defense in the later rounds of the 2026 NFL Draft.

The takeaway

The Saints' selection of David Bailey in the first round provides them with a high-upside pass rusher who can be an immediate impact player on defense and help take pressure off their young quarterback. This pick is a key part of their efforts to build a well-rounded roster and compete for the NFC South title.