Saints to Host Projected Day 2 CB for Private Workout Ahead of NFL Draft

South Carolina's Jalon Kilgore could be a target for New Orleans to bolster their young secondary.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 11:40pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a football game in motion, with players and the field broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of navy, gold, and crimson red, capturing the dynamic energy of the sport.An abstract, cubist interpretation of the Saints' search for a new cornerback to bolster their young secondary.Columbia Today

The New Orleans Saints are set to host South Carolina cornerback Jalon Kilgore for a private workout ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft. Kilgore, a projected Day 2 selection, could be a target for the Saints as they look to replace the departed Alontae Taylor in their secondary.

Why it matters

The Saints' cornerback room is relatively young, with 23-year-old Kool-Aid McKinstry and second-year player Quincy Riley currently slated to start. Bringing in a talented prospect like Kilgore could provide immediate help and allow McKinstry and Riley more time to develop.

The details

Kilgore, a 6-foot-1 cornerback, had a productive career at South Carolina, playing both in the slot and in the box. He ran a 4.4 40-yard dash at the NFL Scouting Combine and posted an impressive 37-inch vertical jump and 10-foot, 11-inch broad jump. Kilgore is ranked No. 128 on PFF's big board and is expected to be chosen on Day 2 of the draft.

  • The Saints' private workout with Kilgore has already taken place.
  • Kilgore is also scheduled to have private workouts with the Carolina Panthers, Indianapolis Colts, Seattle Seahawks, and Washington Commanders.

The players

Alontae Taylor

Former New Orleans Saints cornerback who signed a three-year, $60 million deal with the Tennessee Titans in free agency.

Kool-Aid McKinstry

23-year-old cornerback currently slated to start for the Saints.

Quincy Riley

Second-year cornerback who is expected to start for the Saints.

Jalon Kilgore

South Carolina cornerback who is projected to be selected on Day 2 of the 2026 NFL Draft.

Nick Emmanwori

Seahawks defensive back who Kilgore replaced as a true freshman at South Carolina.

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What they’re saying

“One of the most versatile safeties in the draft, Kilgore also visits the Carolina Panthers, Indianapolis Colts, Seattle Seahawks, and Washington Commanders.”

— Aaron Wilson, NFL Reporter

What’s next

The Saints hold pick No. 73 in the third round of the draft, which is the most likely spot for New Orleans to select Kilgore. By the time the Saints are on the clock with their first pick on Day 3, the 132nd overall, Kilgore should already be off the board.

The takeaway

Adding Kilgore to the Saints' young secondary would not only bring potential at the cornerback position, but also give McKinstry and Riley more time to develop while receiving additional support.