Saints Eyeing Injury-Plagued Ohio State OL Ahead of 2026 NFL Draft

Ethan Onianwa impressed at his pro day, drawing interest from the New Orleans Saints late in the draft process.

Mar. 26, 2026 at 10:19pm

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The New Orleans Saints are reportedly showing interest in Ohio State offensive lineman Ethan Onianwa ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft. Onianwa struggled with injuries last season but impressed scouts at his pro day, timing 5.11 seconds in the 40-yard dash and looking athletic in drills. The Saints could target Onianwa as a late-round depth piece, as he was previously graded as a third-round prospect before his injury-shortened 2025 campaign.

Why it matters

The Saints are looking to bolster their offensive line depth through the draft, and Onianwa represents an intriguing prospect with upside if he can stay healthy. His pro day performance has helped him regain momentum on draft boards after a difficult 2025 season.

The details

According to Tony Pauline of Essentially Sports, the Saints have shown interest in Onianwa following his impressive pro day workout. Onianwa measured in at 6-foot-6 and 332 pounds, and his 5.11-second 40-yard dash time and strong showing in drills have caught the attention of NFL teams like the Saints and Jets. While Onianwa likely won't be a Day 1 or 2 selection, the Saints could target him with one of their late-round picks as a developmental offensive line prospect.

  • Onianwa struggled with injuries early in the 2025 season at Ohio State, playing in just a few games.
  • Onianwa had a strong showing at the 2026 Senior Bowl, impressing scouts at the guard position.
  • Onianwa participated in Ohio State's pro day on March 25, 2026, where he showcased his athleticism.

The players

Ethan Onianwa

A 6-foot-6, 332-pound offensive lineman who played at Ohio State. Onianwa was previously graded as a third-round prospect but saw his 2025 season derailed by injuries.

Tony Pauline

A respected NFL draft analyst who reported on the Saints' interest in Onianwa following his pro day workout.

New Orleans Saints

The NFL team that holds the 8th overall pick in the 2026 draft and is reportedly showing interest in Onianwa as a late-round depth piece.

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What they’re saying

“While no official 30 visits had been scheduled at the time of this posting, both the New York Jets and New Orleans Saints have shown interest in Onianwa. For the Jets, Onianwa would be a terrific day three pick as he's a talented player with upside at a position they may need help.”

— Tony Pauline, NFL Draft Analyst

“Offensive lineman Ethan Onianwa, who struggled with injury last season, looked terrific at pro day and continued the upward momentum on draft boards he started in January.”

— Tony Pauline, NFL Draft Analyst

What’s next

The Saints will likely continue to evaluate Onianwa and other late-round offensive line prospects as they finalize their draft board ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.

The takeaway

Onianwa's impressive pro day performance has helped him regain momentum on draft boards after an injury-plagued 2025 season. While he may not be an early-round pick, the Saints could target him as a developmental offensive line prospect who could provide valuable depth if he can stay healthy.