Saints Pick 8th in NFL Draft, Recent History Shows Mixed Results

The NFC South has dominated the 8th overall pick in recent years, with mixed success.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 9:22pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting fragmented football players and draft prospects, with sharp planes of navy blue, red, and gold overlapping to create a dynamic, abstract scene.The 8th overall pick in the NFL Draft has been a mixed bag for NFC South teams in recent years, with both standout selections and questionable choices.New Orleans Today

The New Orleans Saints are set to pick 8th in the upcoming NFL Draft, continuing a recent trend of NFC South teams selecting from this spot. Over the past 10 years, the 8th overall pick has been used by teams in the Saints' division, with varying degrees of success. From standout players like Christian McCaffrey and Bijan Robinson to more questionable selections, the 8th pick has seen its fair share of hits and misses.

Why it matters

The 8th overall pick in the NFL Draft can be a crucial selection, with teams hoping to land an impact player to bolster their roster. As the Saints look to improve and compete in the NFC South, their choice at this spot could have significant implications for the team's future.

The details

In the past 10 NFL Drafts, the 8th overall pick has been used by teams in the NFC South division six times. This includes selections by the Carolina Panthers, Atlanta Falcons, and New Orleans Saints. The players chosen have had varying degrees of success, from standout performers like running back Bijan Robinson to more questionable picks like cornerback CJ Henderson. The Saints will be looking to hit a home run with their 8th overall selection, as they aim to build a roster capable of challenging for a playoff spot in the competitive NFC South.

  • The 2023 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 27-29, 2023.
  • The Saints have held the 8th overall pick in the draft six times in the past 10 years.

The players

Bijan Robinson

The Atlanta Falcons selected running back Bijan Robinson with the 8th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. Robinson has gone on to become one of the most dynamic offensive players in the league, amassing over 5,600 yards of total offense and 36 touchdowns in his first three seasons.

Drake London

The Atlanta Falcons selected wide receiver Drake London with the 8th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. London had a strong rookie season, catching 100 passes for 1,271 yards and 9 touchdowns, though he missed time in 2023 due to a PCL strain.

Jaycee Horn

The Carolina Panthers selected cornerback Jaycee Horn with the 8th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. Horn has become a key player in the Panthers' secondary, though he has missed time due to injuries in his first few seasons.

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What’s next

The Saints will look to make a strong selection with the 8th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, hoping to land an impact player who can help the team compete in the NFC South.

The takeaway

The 8th overall pick in the NFL Draft has been an interesting spot for NFC South teams in recent years, with both hits and misses. As the Saints prepare to make their selection, they'll be hoping to find a player who can make a significant contribution and help the team take the next step towards contending for a playoff spot.