2025 Draft Grade: B-The Saints were wise in selecting Texas OT Kelvin Banks Jr. with the 9th pick, although draft analysts had mixed reviews. Some anointed him as a foundational LT; others, claimed he'd fit better inside as a guard. On this team, there are needs at both positions. He will be a strong contributor no matter where he eventually lands.
I loved the selections of DT Vernon Broughton and
RB Devin Neal. Sanker, Stutsman and Riley were great 'value' picks and fit needs. QB Tyler Shough could get some play time due to the desperation to fill the vacancy.
Looking Ahead - 2026 Draft
Only two weeks after the 2025 NFL Draft,
QB Derek Carr delivered a gut punch to the Saints by announcing his retirement due to injury. This untimely announcement - followed by a possible drought in the win column in the upcoming season - could, however, set up a storybook miracle for the black-and-gold in the 2026 draft!
With the first selection, the
Saints bring home prodigal son Arch Manning, grandson of Saints legend Archie Manning. I can already hear the Superdome erupt once the 'legacy' steps onto the field. The only question remains: Will the Legend allow his grandson to don his retired jersey? (Granddad Archie, by the way, is the only QB taken in the history of the New Orleans franchise in RD1.)
~DatBudMan, Saints Analyst