Saints Projected to Draft Miami Edge Rusher to Replace Cameron Jordan

ESPN analyst predicts New Orleans will select a top pass-rushing prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 3:13pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a football player in the midst of a sack, with sharp planes of navy, gold, and crimson red conveying the raw power and intensity of the defensive action.A cubist interpretation of a Saints defender pressuring the quarterback, hinting at the team's need to find a new pass-rushing threat in the draft.New Orleans Today

The New Orleans Saints are looking to bolster their defense in the 2026 NFL Draft after focusing on offense in free agency. ESPN's Peter Schrager projects the Saints will select a 9.5-sack edge rusher from the University of Miami to help replace the production of veteran defensive end Cameron Jordan, who is nearing the end of his career.

Why it matters

The Saints have made several high-profile offensive additions this offseason, but their defense still needs an infusion of young talent, especially at the crucial edge rusher position. Selecting a top pass-rushing prospect could help the Saints return to contention in the NFC South.

The details

Schrager's latest mock draft has the Saints using their first-round pick on a Miami Hurricanes edge defender who recorded 9.5 sacks last season. This prospect would be tasked with eventually taking over for the 34-year-old Jordan, who has been the anchor of the Saints' defensive line for over a decade.

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

The players

Tyler Shough

The Saints' new franchise quarterback after being selected in the 2025 NFL Draft.

Travis Etienne Jr.

A running back the Saints signed in free agency to bolster their offensive backfield.

David Edwards

An offensive lineman the Saints added in free agency to strengthen their offensive line.

Noah Fant

A tight end the Saints signed in free agency to provide more weapons for their passing attack.

Cameron Jordan

The veteran defensive end who has anchored the Saints' defensive line for over a decade.

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What they’re saying

“The Saints have made some big splashes on offense, but they still need to address their defense, especially at edge rusher. This Miami prospect could be the perfect replacement for Cameron Jordan down the line.”

— Peter Schrager, ESPN Analyst

What’s next

The Saints will look to finalize their draft plans in the coming weeks leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft, where they will have the opportunity to select their next defensive cornerstone.

The takeaway

The Saints' offseason moves have been focused on upgrading their offense, but they still need to find a long-term solution at edge rusher to complement their new franchise quarterback and offensive weapons. Selecting a top pass-rushing prospect from Miami could be the key to the Saints' return to NFC South contention.