News Saints Team Notes

[New Orleans Saints]

Jaguars vs. Bills: Wild Card Open Thread

The Jacksonville Jaguars host the Buffalo Bills in the first of three Wild Card playoff games today. Buffalo enters this game as a slight road favorite, while Jacksonville comes in as the AFC South Champion with a chip on their shoulder. This matchup should be a fun start to the second day of the 2026 NFL Playoffs!

AFC Wild Card Game​

#6 Buffalo Bills (10-7) at #3 Jacksonville Jaguars (13-4)​

Everbank Stadium – Jacksonville, Florida​

Kickoff – 10:00am PST / 12:00pm CST / 1:00pm EST​

Network – CBS​

Odds – Bills -1.5, O/U 51.5​

Enjoy the game with the CSC family and join the thread below!

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/general/105564/jaguars-vs-bills-wild-card-open-thread

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Saints LB Demario Davis, Devoted Dreamers Foundation and The 18th Ward team up to host flag football tryouts

Demario Davis joins young athletes for a flag football clinic in Paris, France | Saints/Michael DeMocker

New Orleans Saints LB Demario Davis and his Devoted Dreamers Foundation have teamed up with The 18th Ward in New Orleans to host flag football tryouts on Tuesday, January 13, and Thursday, January 15, 2026, at City Park.

The program is free and open to boys and girls aged 8 to 14 during spring and summer. Player identification Week will allow the coaches to observe the athletes on the field and then assign them to a spring program that best supports their skills and long-term development.

Tryouts will be held on Tuesday, January 13, and Thursday, January 15, from 5:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. at City Park.

Founded in 2013 by Demario Davis and his wife, Tamela, Devoted Dreamers’ mission is to help empower youth, instill hope, and nurture future leaders who will shape a brighter world.

The 18th Ward is a local nonprofit that builds community through high-quality, affordable sports and workforce development programming for youth and families from every neighborhood in New Orleans.

To learn more about The 18th Ward, please visit: www.the18thward.org

To learn more about the Devoted Dreamers Foundation, please visit www.devoteddreamers.org

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...th-ward-team-up-to-host-flag-football-tryouts

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Steelers vs. Texans: Wild Card Open Thread

The Pittsburgh Steelers host the Houston Texans in the final game of the Wild Card round. This game will see Aaron Rodgers face the AFC’s best defense in what could be his final game. This matchup could make for a great end to the Wild Card round of the 2026 NFL Playoffs!

AFC Wild Card Game​

#5 Houston Texans (14-3) at #4 Pittsburgh Steelers (10-7)​

Acrisure Stadium – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania​

Kickoff – 5:15pm PST / 7:15pm CST / 8:15pm EST​

Network – ESPN​

Odds – Texans -3, O/U 38.5​

Enjoy the game with the CSC family and join the thread below!

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/general/105575/steelers-vs-texans-wild-card-open-thread

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Final State of the NFC South for the 2025 season

What a weird season for the NFC South, but in the end, the Carolina Panthers were the division winners. Now, going into the offseason, all four of these teams have tough work to do this offseason, so let’s start the preview.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers​

This was a very disappointing season for the Buccaneers. Instead of repeating their NFC South dominance of recent years and QB Baker Mayfield proving to be a real franchise QB, the team was a shell of its old self. Mayfield struggled throughout the season, the run game fell apart at times, and the coaching was horrible. I would say that one of the things the Bucs need to do is move on from HC Todd Bowles, but it seems he will be staying. They have begun to make changes to the offensive coaching staff, which may bring some improvement, but if another disappointing season occurs, a small reset may be coming.

Carolina Panthers​

In almost every opposite way, the Panthers were the shock of the NFC South. Going from nearly last in the 2024 NFC South to first in 2025 is an excellent turnaround. It was far from perfect, and now there is an expectation to repeat in 2026, which creates more pressure, but it can easily happen again. The main question, as it always has been, is QB Bryce Young’s consistency and whether he can be the franchise guy. Young showed some great flashes of it, but his contract extension is on its way, and it could be a top 10 QB contract. The question is whether that is worth it with how volatile his play has been.

Atlanta Falcons​

Back to the disappointing teams of the NFC South, the Falcons were in a similar state as the Buccaneers. Massive expectations to take the next step in 2025, but it fell very much short. Yes, they were one game away from first place, but it was not a pretty season. QB Michael Penix went down with a devastating knee injury, and there is now growing concern given his already extensive history of knee issues. There is still uncertainty at the most important position in football, even after trying to double dip with an expensive free agent QB (Kirk Cousins) and a top drafted QB (Penix). This team has way too many young, dynamic pieces to be third in the division next year, and with the HC search underway, maybe they will find the guy to maximize the talent on the roster.

New Orleans Saints​

For last place in the division, the Saints may have one of the top future outlooks in the division. Over the last 5 weeks of the season, New Orleans won 4 games. Yes, they could not end the season with that final victory, but for a team that looked like it was going to select #1 overall at one point, there is real momentum heading into next season. QB Tyler Shough looks like the guy, and the Saints need to do everything in their power to avoid a sophomore slump. This roster needs work, nearly everywhere, but many of the issues can be fixed this offseason. Let’s see if they can do it.

Final 2025/26 NFC South Standings

1. Panthers (8-9)
2. Buccaneers (8-9)
3. Falcons (8-9)
4. Saints (6-11)

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...al-state-of-the-nfc-south-for-the-2025-season

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Updated 2026 NFL Draft order: Current 1st-round picks after the wild card round

The New Orleans Saints already know where they will be drafting in 2026, but for the playoff teams, some of the first spots were solidified after last night’s game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Houston Texans.

Here is the new first-round draft order.

Updated 2026 NFL Draft order​

1. Las Vegas Raiders
2. New York Jets
3. Arizona Cardinals
4. Tennessee Titans
5. New York Giants
6. Cleveland Browns
7. Washington Commanders
8. New Orleans Saints
9. Kansas City Chiefs
10. Cincinnati Bengals
11. Miami Dolphins
12. Dallas Cowboys
13. Los Angeles Rams (previously owned by Atlanta Falcons)
14. Baltimore Ravens
15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
16. New York Jets (previously owned by the Indianapolis Colts)
17. Detroit Lions
18. Minnesota Vikings
19. Carolina Panthers
20. Dallas Cowboys (previously owned by the Green Bay Packers)
21. Pittsburgh Steelers
22. Los Angeles Chargers
23. Philadelphia Eagles
24. Cleveland Browns (previously owned by the Jacksonville Jaguars)
25. Chicago Bears
26. Buffalo Bills
27. San Francisco 49ers
28. Houston Texans
29. Los Angeles Rams
30. New England Patriots
31. Denver Broncos
32. Seattle Seahawks

What the Saints can do at #8​

Looking again at some other options at pick #8 for the Saints, DT Peter Woods is one that jumps out. Yes, going with a defensive tackle this early is scary, and one from Clemson. Although the Saints didn’t strike out with Bryan Bresee, it hasn’t been a smooth journey to this point. Being stung by that is something the NFL really takes into consideration, but Woods is different.

Clemson as a whole had a very down year, but Woods stayed dominant. When he wasn’t being double-teamed, Woods was excellent against the run, and that is going to be the main reason why teams love him. His pass rush needs to get better, but for DT, a floor is set if the run defense is there. That was one of the issues with Bresee because he is the opposite, so the floor is lower. In Woods’ case, he is very good at taking up space, demanding attention, and opening up opportunities for other defensive linemen. It’s not an exciting pick, but it will 100% improve the defense.

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...ent-1st-round-picks-after-the-wild-card-round

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Former Saints quarterback selected in 2026 UFL Draft

On Friday, January 9, quarterback Hunter Dekkers was selected by the United Football League’s Houston Gamblers during the first phase of the association’s multi-stage draft. Less than one year ago, Dekkers found himself going undrafted in the 2025 NFL Draft, but will now have an opportunity for a fresh start with a new team in hopes of continuing his professional career.

Dekkers signed with the New Orleans Saints as an undrafted free agent following a minicamp tryout in May 2025. He was never able to see the field during the preseason as Kellen Moore and the Saints worked rigorously to figure out their starting QB situation ahead of the regular season. Although Dekkers did not wind up making the active roster, he still found a place within the organization with a spot on the practice squad.

The Iowa native stuck close to home as he played the first three seasons of his collegiate career at Iowa State University as a Cyclone before wrapping his college days at Iowa Western University, a member of the National Junior College Athletic Association.

Dekkers will join another undrafted 2025 QB, Donovan Smith, on the Gamblers’ roster this spring. Smith played collegiate ball at both Texas Tech and Houston.

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...saints-quarterback-selected-in-2026-ufl-draft

 

[Zedster]

Some interesting stuff here. Good to see Demario Davis continuing to do great work in the community - the Devoted Dreamers Foundation has been doing solid things for years now. Flag football is blowing up too, especially with it being added to the Olympics, so this is a nice opportunity for kids in New Orleans.

As for the NFC South recap, what a strange year. Three teams at 8-9 and somehow the Panthers come out on top. Hard to believe Carolina went from basement dwellers to division champs that quickly. The article makes a fair point about Tyler Shough though - if he really is the guy, the Saints have a decent foundation to build on heading into next year. Those last 5 weeks showed some life.

The #8 pick is an interesting spot. Peter Woods is intriguing but I get the hesitation given the Bresee situation. Run-stuffing DTs aren't flashy but they can anchor a defense. Guess we'll see how the board falls.

Also caught that Hunter Dekkers got picked up by the UFL. Didn't really get a fair shot here with all the QB chaos last year. Hope he gets some playing time in Houston and can work his way back to an NFL roster eventually.

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Former Alabama and Saints RB Mark Ingram to be inducted into the 2026 College Football Hall of Fame class

The National Football Foundation (NFF) and the College Hall of Fame have announced the 2026 College Football Hall of Fame Class and Former Alabama and New Orleans Saints Running Back Mark Ingram will soon be joining the elite group of college athletes and coaches.

Ingram becomes the 28th former Crimson Tide player or coach to be induced into the College Football Hall of Fame and is the 3rd Alabama inductee since 2024, as he joins Antonio Langham (2024) and Nick Saban (2025).

Ingram played for the Alabama from 2008-2010. In 2009, he became the first Heisman Trophy winner in the school’s history after rushing for 1658 yards, 17 touchdowns and helping the Tide win the 2009 National Championship.

Ingram was named to the SEC All-Freshman Team in 2008. He earned consensus All-American status and SEC Offensive Player of the Year honors in 2009 in addition to being named the Most Valuable Player of the BCS National Championship. During his 3 seasons at Alabama, Ingram rushed for 3,261 yards on 572 attempts, scored 42 rushing touchdowns plus caught 60 receptions for 670 yards and 4 touchdowns. His 42 rushing touchdowns currently ranks as the 3rd-most in program history, while his 3,261 rushing yards stand as 7th-most in the school’s record book

In 2010, Ingram was drafted 28th overall by the New Orleans Saints in 2010, where played 10 total seasons. Through his 12-year NFL career, he rushed for 8,111 rushing yards with 65 touchdowns and was selected to Pro Bowl in 2014, 2017 and 2019.

Joining Ingram in the 2026 College Hall of Fame Class are:

(Players)

• Jerry Azumah, RB (1995-98) – University of New Hampshire
• Ki-Jana Carter, RB (1991-94) – Penn State University
• Bruce Collie, OT (1981-84) – University of Texas at Arlington
• George Cumby, LB (1976-79) – University of Oklahoma
• Aaron Donald, DT (2010-13) – University of Pittsburgh
• Marvin Harrison, KR/WR (1992-95) – Syracuse University
• Garrison Hearst, RB (1990-92) – University of Georgia
• Chris Hudson, DB (1991-94) – University of Colorado
• Mark Ingram, RB (2008-10) – University of Alabama
• Olin Kreutz, C (1995-97) – University of Washington
• James Laurinaitis, LB (2005-08) – Ohio State University
• Jordan Lynch, AP/QB (2010-13) – Northern Illinois University
• Herman Moore, WR (1988-90) – University of Virginia
• Terence Newman, CB (1999-2002) – Kansas State University
• Bob Novogratz, OG (1957-58) – United States Military Academy
• Ndamukong Suh, DT (2006-09) – University of Nebraska
• Peter Warrick, WR (1996-99) – Florida State University
• Eric Weddle, S (2003-06) – University of Utah

(Coaches)

COACHES:

• Jim Margraff: 221-89-3 (71.1%) – Johns Hopkins University [MD] (1990-2018)
• Gary Patterson: 181-79-0 (69.6%) – Texas Christian University (2000-21)
• Chris Petersen: 147-38-0 (79.5%) – Boise State University (2006-13); Uni. of Washington (2014-19)
• Ken Sparks: 338-99-2 (77.2%) – Carson-Newman University [TN] (1980-2016)

The formal College Hall of Fame induction ceremony will take place on Tuesday, December 8, 2026, at the Bellagio Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, NV.

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...-the-2026-college-football-hall-of-fame-class

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Should the Saints bring back Isaiah Stalbird?

The New Orleans Saints have some tough decisions to make this offseason with pending free agents, but one of the easier ones should be re-signing former UDFA LB Isaiah Stalbird, who proved to be an exciting piece for Brandon Staley’s defense.

The former South Dakota State Jackrabbit and converted defensive back finally got his chance to shine after a redshirt year on the Saints’ practice squad as a rookie. Stalbird finished the 2025 season with 25 total tackles (12 solo), six pressures, two sacks, four stops and a pass breakup across 17 games and 63 defensive snaps.

Standing 6-foot-1 and 215 pounds, the former safety’s speed and quickness proved valuable as a stand-up edge rusher in Staley’s scheme. Down the stretch, he became one of the more electric players to watch on a rolling Saints defense.

Just 25 years old, Stalbird could develop into a dynamic asset for New Orleans if the team decides to bring him back on a new deal. With his speed and versatility, he has the tools to become a playmaker for the defense as the Saints continue to shape the personnel for Staley’s 3-4 scheme.

Would you like to see the Saints re-sign Isaiah Stalbird?

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c.../should-the-saints-bring-back-isaiah-stalbird

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Watson’s Saints 3-round mock NFL Draft

With the 2026 NFL Draft just over four months away and the postseasons of both professional and college football coming to a close, many athletes hopeful of hearing their names called in April are prepping to put forth their best for scouts, coaches, and staff of teams seeking to fill their needs. As for Kellen Moore, Mickey Loomis, and the New Orleans Saints, the eighth overall pick of the draft will add another foundational pillar to the future of football in the Big Easy.

This mock draft was completed without New Orleans submitting any trades, although such trades are certainly feasible within the early round selections. The Saints currently hold one pick in each of the first three rounds of the upcoming draft in Pittsburgh. They will choose prospects at slots 8, 42, and 73.

While many believed that the Saints would be locked into selecting a top quarterback following the early portion of this past season, the performance from 2025 second-round pick Tyler Shough has given New Orleans new life at the position. With their QB of the future locked in, this will allow the team to build around him and get new weapons on both sides of the football. Here’s how I could see things breaking down:

Round 1, Pick 8- Rueben Bain Jr., EDGE, Miami (FL)

Should Auburn’s Keldric Faulk be the first edge defender taken in the draft, there is a very real possibility that Miami’s Rueben Bain Jr., whom many believe to be a top-three talent in this year’s draft, could fall to number eight, where New Orleans would be waiting to pounce. Bain, a three-year player at UM, is having a career season helping Miami find a spot in the National Championship game. The 6’3” pass rusher has nearly 20 sacks over the course of the past three years and has come to be an opposing QB’s worst nightmare. With uncertainty about whether or not longtime Saint Cam Jordan will return to the team, Who Dat Nation could very well be looking at Jordan’s successor, the defense so desperately needs.

Round 2, Pick 42- Germie Bernard, WR, Alabama

After securing a top defender in the draft class, Tyler Shough will get a new pass catcher on the roster at a big position of need. The Saints lack size in their wide receiver room. They need someone with a large frame, strong hands, and a knack for finding the open space within the defense. Germie Bernard checks all of those boxes for New Orleans—the 6’1”, 204lb. Wideout has made a few stops on his collegiate football trail. After beginning with Michigan State, he found himself playing first for the Washington Huskies and then wrapping up his playing time with the Alabama Crimson Tide. Bernard gathered over 2,200 receiving yards through college on 155 receptions. He is a smart, sure-handed playmaker that I am sure Kellen Moore would love to have in his offense.

Round 3, Pick 73- Hezekiah Masses, CB, California

Hezekiah Masses is a 6’1” senior cornerback from the California Golden Bears. After playing for three seasons as a Panther at Florida International, Masses went cross-country to play at CAL. There, he burst onto the scene and secured five interceptions in his senior season. The CB is active on the field and has a nose for the football. Masses had 24 pass breakups throughout his four college seasons, including 12 of them in 2025. One of the quickest-rising defenders in the upcoming draft class could find a home within Brandon Staley’s top-ten defense next season and serve a large role as a rookie.

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/nfl-draft/105728/watsons-saints-3-round-mock-nfl-draft

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Fleur-de-Links, January 15: Saints great set to be inducted in CFB HOF

Former Alabama and Saints RB Mark Ingram to be inducted into the 2026 College Football Hall of Fame class​

Very well deserved.

Michael Thomas Confirms Wild Sean Payton Story About Super Bowl Trophy in Saints Locker Room​

Another reason the Saints should have won a Super Bowl from 2017 to 2019.

[URL='https://www.si.com/nfl/saints/onsi/saints-news/dante-moore-staying-at-oregon-negatively-impacts-saints-pat3']Dante Moore Staying At Oregon Negatively Impacts Saints[/URL]​

Not the best news for the Saints’ 8th overall selection.

RT for a chance to win a Tyler Shough autographed football!

Vote Shough for Rookie of the Year: https://t.co/0YipLG9k0S#Saints | Rules: https://t.co/a7SWIYCPTO pic.twitter.com/rR9ck0alto

— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) January 13, 2026

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...15-saints-great-set-to-be-inducted-in-cfb-hof

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Former Saints RB is on his way to the UFL

When the New Orleans Saints faced 53-man roster cuts, one of the hardest positions to predict was the RB room. The Saints had a decent group throughout training camp, and with some talent sprinkled throughout, the deeper part of the group was going to be a tight battle.

In the end, the Saints went with Alvin Kamara, Kendre Miller, Devin Neal, and Velus Jones Jr. On the outside was UDFA Marcus Yarns. After that, Yarns landed on the Hamilton Tiger-Cats’ practice squad in the CFL, but that lasted until October. Now, the former Saints UDFA will have another chance, this time in the UFL.

If he's even, he's leavin'

Welcome WR Marcus Yarns to H-Town!#UFLDraft pic.twitter.com/GLIcJDQmbJ

— Houston Gamblers (@UFLGamblers) January 15, 2026

When the Saints brought in Yarns as a UDFA, many, including myself, believed he could be an excellent weapon for the offense. He had home run ability, which is something HC Kellen Moore talked about all season, and was excellent as a pass catcher.

Sometimes, a player making a roster is less about talent and more about fit. The Saints had a great RB group going into the season, and there was just little space for Yarns. Hopefully, the young RB can have a great season with the Houston Gamblers and make his way back to the league.

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...780/former-saints-rb-is-on-his-way-to-the-ufl

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Fleur-de-Links, January 17: A former Saint finds a new home

A former Saints WR is headed to the UFL​

Marcus Yarns has joined the Houston Gamblers.

Who were your defense standouts for the Saints in 2025?​

Some familiar names really stepped up this year.

Could Spencer Rattler be headed elsewhere?​

5 teams that could be interested in trading for the Saints backup QB.

Chase Young is beast mood. pic.twitter.com/L6xAutPSf9

— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) January 17, 2026

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...ks-january-17-a-former-saint-finds-a-new-home

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Seahawks vs. 49ers: Divisional Playoff Open Thread

Tonight, the Seattle Seahawks host the San Francisco 49ers in the second of two Divisional Playoff games. Seattle comes into the game as the NFC’s top seed and should be well-rested off of their bye, while the Niners come in off a thrilling Wild Card win in Philly last week. Seattle is the favorite here, but San Francisco may be every bit the equal of their division rivals. This should be a great way to conclude the first day of the 2026 Divisional Playoff weekend!

NFC Divisional Playoff​

#6 San Francisco 49ers at #1 Seattle Seahawks​

Lumen Field – Seattle, Washington​

Kickoff – 5:00pm PST / 7:00pm CST / 8:00pm EST​

Network – FOX​

Odds – Seahawks -7, O/U 44.5​

Enjoy the game with the CSC family and join the thread below!

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...hawks-vs-49ers-divisional-playoff-open-thread

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Broncos vs. Bills: Divisional Playoff Open Thread

Today, the Denver Broncos host the Buffalo Bills in the first of two Divisional Playoff games. Buffalo is coming off an exciting win in Jacksonville last weekend, while Denver is fresh off a bye week and rested up for this game. Josh Allen against the Denver defense will be the story of this game, and it will be fun to see which of these teams punches their ticket to Championship Sunday. This should be a great way to start the first day of the 2026 Divisional Round!

AFC Divisional Playoff​

#5 Buffalo Bills at #1 Denver Broncos​

Empower Field at Mile High – Denver, Colorado​

Kickoff – 1:30pm PST / 3:30pm CST / 4:30pm EST​

Network – CBS​

Odds – Broncos -1.5, O/U 46.5​

Enjoy the game with the CSC family and join the thread below!

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/general/105790/broncos-vs-bills-divisional-playoff-open-thread

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Bears vs. Rams: Divisional Playoff Open Thread

Today, the Chicago Bears host the Los Angeles Rams in the second of two Divisional Playoff games. Los Angeles is coming off a shootout win in Carolina last week, while Chicago is coming off a remarkable comeback win against Green Bay. It will be fun to see which of these teams punches their ticket to Championship Sunday. This will be a fantastic way to end the 2026 Divisional Round!

NFC Divisional Playoff​

#3 Los Angeles Rams at #2 Chicago Bears​

Soldier Field – Chicago, Illinois​

Kickoff – 3:30pm PST / 5:30pm CST / 6:30pm EST​

Network – NBC​

Odds – Rams -3.5, O/U 48.5​

Enjoy the game with the CSC family and join the thread below!

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/general/105821/bears-vs-rams-divisional-playoff-open-thread

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Fleur-de-Links, January 19: Tyler Shough continues getting praised

Canal Street Chronicles: NFL Playoffs Bold Predictions​

Check out if the CSC staff’s bold predictions were correct.

Tyler Shough Gets Stamp Of Approval From Saints Legend​

Could Shough make this player return?

Morning Break: Tyler Shough to work with Drew Brees, Joel Thomas named Senior Bowl head coach​

The correct move going into next season.

Reggie Bush in the Divisional Round 16 years ago:

217 all-purpose yards
2 TDs
12 touches pic.twitter.com/m2WV7EtynQ

— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) January 17, 2026

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...ary-19-tyler-shough-continues-getting-praised

 

[New Orleans Saints]

2026 CFP National Championship Game Open Thread

Tonight, the #10 Miami Hurricanes (13-2) face the #1 Indiana Hoosiers (15-0) in the CFP National Championship Game presented by AT&T. The success of these schools may come as a shock to some, but should not be considered a surprise to fans that have payed attention to these programs over the last couple of years. Miami looks to win their first national title since 2001, while Indiana looks to win their first ever national title. No matter the result tonight, we will see a champion we haven’t seen in at least a quarter-century.

2026 CFP National Championship Game​

#10 Miami Hurricanes vs. #1 Indiana Hoosiers​

Location: Hard Rock Stadium – Miami, Florida​

Game Time: 4:30pm PST / 6:30pm CST / 7:30pm EST ​

Network: ESPN​

Odds – Indiana -7.5, O/U 48.5​

Enjoy the game with the CSC family and join the thread below!

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/general/105579/2026-cfp-national-championship-game-open-thread

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Updated 2026 NFL Draft order: Current 1st-round picks after the Divisonal Round

After another slate of exciting playoff games (except 49ers vs. Seahawks), more draft positions have been solidified.

Here is the new first-round draft order.

Updated 2026 NFL Draft order​

1. Las Vegas Raiders
2. New York Jets
3. Arizona Cardinals
4. Tennessee Titans
5. New York Giants
6. Cleveland Browns
7. Washington Commanders
8. New Orleans Saints
9. Kansas City Chiefs
10. Cincinnati Bengals
11. Miami Dolphins
12. Dallas Cowboys
13. Los Angeles Rams (previously owned by Atlanta Falcons)
14. Baltimore Ravens
15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
16. New York Jets (previously owned by the Indianapolis Colts)
17. Detroit Lions
18. Minnesota Vikings
19. Carolina Panthers
20. Dallas Cowboys (previously owned by the Green Bay Packers)
21. Pittsburgh Steelers
22. Los Angeles Chargers
23. Philadelphia Eagles
24. Cleveland Browns (previously owned by the Jacksonville Jaguars)
25. Chicago Bears
26. Buffalo Bills
27. San Francisco 49ers
28. Houston Texans
29. Los Angeles Rams
30. New England Patriots
31. Denver Broncos
32. Seattle Seahawks

What the Saints can do at #8​

I have been focusing on defensive prospects recently, but let’s get back to the offense. The Saints need to do everything in their power to avoid a sophomore slump from Tyler Shough. We have seen what it can do to someones confidents with what happened to Texans QB C.J. Stroud. He has taken a massive step back from his rookie year, and the Saints can’t afford something like that to happen to them.

With that in mind, this roster needs another WR. Chris Olave is the top guy; Devaugn Vele is what the Saints have been missing in their WR room. The depth is good, but that #2 option still must be found. That could be done in free agency, but with Olave’s extension going to be expensive, going for the cheap option in the draft may be the best decision. In the first round, three WRs (Carnell Tate, Jordyn Tyson, and Makai Lemon) are all excellent options for the Saints. Today, let’s talk about Makai Lemon.

The USC WR is a dynamic player after the catch who can maneuver past defenders and change the outcome of a game. He is not the most athletic, fast, or tall (listed at 5-foot-11), but man, he is a great WR. Primarily in the slot, Lemon is always open, and his height is not an issue. Somehow, Lemon can play like he is 6-foot-4 in contested situations. His catch radius is not great, and there are times in games where the throw is off, and while other WRs may be able reach for it, Lemon can’t. Like with every other WR in this class, there are some drawbacks, but Lemon would be the perfect complement to Olave and Vele, while also becoming a top option for Shough.

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...ent-1st-round-picks-after-the-divisonal-round

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Saints have their first contract extension of the season

The offseason is underway, and the New Orleans Saints are not wasting time. Since the end of the season, some small moves were made, such as some reserve/future signings, but that’s all. Well, today, that changed. The Saints officially announced that they have signed SAF Julian Blackmon to a 1-year contract extension.

The #Saints have signed S Julian Blackmon to a one-year contract extension.

— Tina Howell (@TinaM_Howell) January 20, 2026

Although this may still look like a minor move, it’s quite the opposite. In the small sample size, Blackmon was healthy, he played very well, and the idea that rookie Jonas Sanker could play over him was inconceivable. Obviously, as I mentioned, that did not last long, only playing the first game of the season, but he looked like the best Saints DB on the field. Is that sustainable? Doubtfully. But now, Blackmon’s role with the Saints will be as depth, coming in throughout games.

With Blackmon coming back for one more year, this is a win-win situation for both sides. For New Orleans, the safety room is now complete. A group of Justin Reid, Sanker, and Blackmon is extremely good. Looking at this from Blackmon’s perspective, the veteran can now try to make an impact throughout the season, build up his value again, and get a bigger contract in 2027.

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...-their-first-contract-extension-of-the-season