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[New Orleans Saints]

Day 2 of the NFL Draft: Winners and Losers

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Does not matter how many picks, but how teams use those picks.

After the first round was complete, teams around the league still needed to do more work and make some great picks on day 2 of the NFL Draft. Although some teams succeeded with this, other teams did not.

The Winners​

Jim Rassol-Imagn Images

The Miami Dolphins​

When looking at the teams who may have had questionable picks in the first round, the Miami Dolphins was on that list. I nearly put them on the loser's section for Day 1 but decided not to because if they would have gone offensive line or cornerback at 13, which they desperately need, it would have been a reach. Still, going into day 2, the Dolphins only had 1 selection and need to address the offensive line. At pick 37, the did just that by selecting OG/OT Jonah Savaiinaea. This is the offensive line help Miami desperately needed, and they traded with the Raiders to make it happen. Savaiinaea brings some positional flexibility to the Dolphins, but for now, he can play right away at guard.

The New England Patriots​

The Patriots had a massive number of needs going into the NFL Draft, but starting with selecting Will Campbell in the first round was a great start. More work still needed to be done, and the Patriots had 3 selections on day 2 to make it happen. At pick 38, RB TreVeyon Henderson was the selection, pick 69 was WR Kyle Williams, and 95 was C Jared Wilson. Starting with Henderson, Mike Vrabel gets speedy rushing weapon that can now take even more pressure off of 2nd year QB Drake Maye. Kyle Williams is one of the biggest risers in this years’ draft and it seemed every team could be in play for the WR. Then with the last day 2 pick, the Patriots got Jared Wilson, who is arguably the best center in the draft. New England has done everything to put Drake Maye in a scenario to feel comfortable and succeed.

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The Losers​

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The Detroit Lions​

The Lions are known for taking players they like no matter what pick it is, and it is hard to really fault them for doing that. Still, these selections are much earlier than expected and that needs to be viewed as “reaches” for those picks. At 56, the Lions selected Georgia OG Tate Ratledge. This pick actually makes sense for the Lions and there are not many negatives with this selection, but the next one is where the questions are present. At pick 70, the Lions selected Arkansas WR Isaac Teslaa, which was a surprising pick, especially with someone like WR Jaylin Noel still on the board. Again, it is very hard to criticize a team getting the player they want, but compared to other teams’ selections on day 2, the questions around the Lions’ picks are why they are here.

The New Orleans Saints​

Speaking of questions around some selections, the New Orleans Saints had an interesting day 2. I’m never going to fault a team, especially one with an offensive head coach, getting the QB they believe in. This is what happened at pick 40 with the selection of Tyler Shough. Personally, this would not have been the selection I would have made, but I am also not an offensive coaching staff built to identify QB talent. Moving on to pick 71, the Saints selected their second Texas Longhorn of the draft, DT Vernon Broughton. This is a good move to improve the defensive line talent, but not really a “needle mover”. I do think safety Jonas Sanker was an amazing pick at 93 and should be a contributor right away. The main reason that the Saints are one of the losers is because these moves raise the floor of this roster, but not the ceiling. Doing this is completely fine for a team that is going through a rebuild, but before we see what these prospects can do on the field, this day 2 group of selections is going to be graded lower.

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...ers-and-losers-saints-lions-patriots-dolphins

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Mel Kiper grades the Saints’ 2025 NFL Draft Class

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What are his thoughts on the newest members of the Saints?

The 2025 NFL Draft is over, and it concluded with the New Orleans Saints making all 9 picks throughout 3 days. Now that the dust has settled, draft grades are starting to come in and while it truly takes a few years to see how a player will pan out, it’s interesting to take a look at other opinions of those picks now and then we can go back and reference them in the future.

ESPN’s Mel Kiper quickly released his grades and evaluations, listing the Saints’ needs as quarterback, cornerback, wide receiver, guard and edge rusher.

So, let’s see how he graded their 2025 draft class:

New Orleans Saints: B-​

Reach, reach, reach. That’s what I have in my notes for the Saints. Too many reaches. I was critical of their first round. I was similarly critical of their second and third rounds. Some of that centered on their QB approach — I had a much higher grade on Shedeur Sanders than I did Tyler Shough, whom they took at No. 40. But I just didn’t love their value throughout.

On Shough, are we sure he will be the heir apparent to Derek Carr? The veteran is dealing with a shoulder injury, and his status for 2025 is up in the air. I understand that Shough is 26 years old, but I’m not sure New Orleans can put him on the field this season and expect to win games. And really, if you’re taking a quarterback in the top 40, you’ve got to believe you can win games with him, either immediately or after he catches up to the speed of the league. I don’t have that belief.

I liked the selection of offensive tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. in Round 1, but Vernon Broughton was my 20th-ranked defensive tackle, and New Orleans took him in Round 3. There were better safeties available when it drafted Jonas Sanker in the same round, too. The Saints didn’t get an edge rusher until Round 7 and didn’t take a wide receiver at all.

So what saves this class from a C? They added a few good players on Day 3, including linebacker Danny Stutsman and cornerback Quincy Riley. Those are solid picks. Not stars, but solid prospects. Overall, I would have gone in a different direction if I were in GM Mickey Loomis’ shoes.

You can check out Kiper’s grades for all 32 teams here

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Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...-grades-the-new-orleans-saints-2025-nfl-draft

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Saints Reacts Results: How would you grade the Saints’ selection of OT Kelvin Banks Jr. with the 9th overall pick of the NFL Draft?

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44% of our voters said...

On Thursday night with the 9th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft the New Orleans Saints selected Texas OT Kelvin Banks Jr.

So, in the draft edition of our reacts poll, we asked readers how they would grade the Saints’ selection of Banks in the first round of the draft?

44% of voters gave the Saints the top-rated grade of an A, followed by 35% saying the Saints earned a B.

Banks is a player that Saints GM Mickey Loomis said that they loved and thought that he could have been selected above them but fortunately, the Saints were able to get who they wanted, and he will be someone who can come in as a day 1 starter to help strengthen their offensive line.

We will get our first look at Banks and as well as all the newest members of the Saints during rookie minicamp on May 8 - 10.

You can check out all the odds related to this upcoming season on FanDuel

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Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...ection-kelvin-banks-9th-pick-of-the-nfl-draft

 

[New Orleans Saints]

How Kelvin Banks Jr immediately impacts the Saints offense

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The rookie should see success early in 2025.

The New Orleans Saints stayed disciplined in round one of the 2025 NFL Draft and selected tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. from Texas. While not an exciting pick, the 6-foot-5 tackle will immediately make an impact as a starter.

Steve Roberts-Imagn Images

The Saints drafted tackle Taliese Fuaga with their first-round pick in 2024 and double-dipped on the offensive line in the 2025 NFL Draft to anchor their trenches. If Banks starts, New Orleans will have four first rounder and one second rounder on their starting offensive line.

While the orientation of the Saints' offensive line hasn't been decided/revealed yet, Banks' athleticism and size will make an immediate impact during his rookie year in the run game. The former Texas tackle is quick off the snap, getting him to the second level quickly. Bank's ability to track defenders and lock them on blocks will help open running lanes and his high motor allows him to bounce from defender to defender and stay in the play.

Head coach Kellen Moore is coming off a Super Bowl win with the Philadelphia Eagles with an emphasis on running the ball. Running back Saquan Barkley had a career year, rushing for 2,005 yards and 13 touchdowns under Moore, and was the center point of the Eagles offense. The Saints will try to replicate this offense around veteran running back Alvin Kamara with them likely to start a rookie quarterback in 2025.

Taliese Fuaga is New Orleans’ future at left tackle and Trevor Penning has accelerated his development since switching to right tackle. While Banks started all three seasons at Texas as a tackle, some believe he could be a guard at the next level. No matter where the Saints decide to start their rookie offensive lineman, his raw size and athleticism will make an immediate impact on the team’s new run-heavy offense.

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Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...nks-jr-immediately-impacts-the-saints-offense

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Get to know Saints DE Fadil Diggs

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New Orleans adds much-needed speed off the edge.

With pick No. 254 in the seventh round of the 2025 NFL Draft, the New Orleans Saints addressed their need for a speedy edge rusher by selecting DE Fadil Diggs out of Syracuse.

Photo by Bryan Bennett/Getty Images

Standing 6-foot-4 and 201 pounds, Diggs impressed at the NFL Combine with a 4.57-second 40-yard dash, 1.60-second 10-yard split, 30.5-inch vertical and 10-foot-1 broad jump. He posted a 9.36 Relative Athletic Score out of a possible 10.00, ranking 131st among 2,029 defensive ends from 1987 to 2025.

The 23-year-old pass rusher spent four seasons at Texas A&M from 2020 to 2023 before transferring to Syracuse for his final year of eligibility. He recorded nine sacks, 68 tackles (51 solo), four forced fumbles and 50 stops for the Aggies over that span, according to Pro Football Focus.

In his lone season for the Orange, Diggs posted eight sacks, 33 tackles (25 solo), one forced fumble and 25 stops, including a career-high 83.2 pass rush grade from PFF. He earned All-ACC honorable mention honors and led the team with 14 tackles for loss in 12 starts.

Diggs brings good value as a Day 3 pick and could emerge as one of the steals of the draft. He brings pro-ready size, length and much-needed speed to the Saints’ defensive line.

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Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/2025/4/30/24418991/get-to-know-saints-de-fadil-diggs

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Saints have 5 selections ranked in ESPN’s top 100 NFL Draft picks

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Which newest members of the Saints made this list?

Since the NFL Draft ended, grades and reviews have been pouring in and one of the biggest is ESPN’s Best 100 list. Matt Miller assesses every team’s selection based on their needs and the player’s pre-draft ranking. The New Orleans Saints had 9 picks in this year’s draft and 5 of their selections made it on Miller’s list.

So, let’s take a look at those players, where they were ranked and why.

13. Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, New Orleans Saints (Pick 1-9)​

My final overall ranking: No. 8

I absolutely love the Saints pairing Banks, my top-ranked tackle, with Taliese Fuaga, their first rounder from last year. This roster needs an identity and now has one up front. Banks can either play at left tackle with Fuaga replacing Trevor Penning at right tackle or play left guard next to Fuaga.

56. Quincy Riley, CB, New Orleans Saints (Pick 4-131)​

My final overall ranking: No. 95

Riley was bothered by injury last season, but his tape shows me he can be a quality slot cornerback in the NFL. He has been coached up well enough to see the field as a rookie and is a big value win for the Saints.

77. Devin Neal, RB, New Orleans Saints (Pick 6-184)​

My final overall ranking: No. 116

Neal was way better than the 184th best player in the draft, and the Saints might have stolen a real good backup with goal-line and short-yardage toughness. He also has the hands to be an effective pass catcher on screens and swing passes.

83. Tyler Shough, QB, New Orleans Saints (Pick 2-40)​

My final overall ranking: No. 73

Shough was a reach based on value, but the Saints needed a quarterback who could step right into the lineup given Derek Carr’s injury. Shough is one of the only quarterbacks in this class capable of that, because of his experience and pro-ready arm talent.

94. Danny Stutsman, LB, New Orleans Saints (Pick 4-112)​

My final overall ranking: No. 111

If you’re looking for a culture-building leader on defense, Stutsman is your guy. He is a productive player with a vocal on-field presence and the speed to be a run-and-chase linebacker.

Do you agree with Miller’s rankings and why? You can check all out all 100 rankings here: 2025 NFL draft: Ranking the 100 best picks, steals, fits - ESPN

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Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...tions-ranked-in-espns-top-100-nfl-draft-picks

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Saints UDFA profile: Dalys Beanum

Erin Woodiel / Argus Leader / USA TODAY NETWORK

New Orleans signs one of the top cornerbacks at the FCS level.

The New Orleans Saints have agreed to a UDFA deal with former South Dakota State cornerback Dalys Beanum, the second corner and fourth defensive back acquired by the team during the draft process. Beanum is a four-year contributor and two-year starter who won back-to-back FCS national titles for the Jackrabbits in 2022 and 2023. He finished his career in Brookings with 12 interceptions, 3rd all-time in school history, three of which he returned for a touchdown. Beanum’s season high in tackles in 2024 came in South Dakota State’s opener against Oklahoma State, their one FBS opponent last year. Beanum has also stepped up in big games for South Dakota State. In 2023, he intercepted a pass in each of the Jackrabbits four playoff games en route to their second straight national title. He recovered a fumble in the 2022 FCS national championship game and intercepted three passes against UC Davis in a first-round playoff game in 2021.

Dalys Beanum all over it for the INT!#GoJacks pic.twitter.com/YaicUkbQkW

— SDSU Football (@GoJacksFB) October 12, 2024​

Beanum has good size for a corner at 6’1” 200 lbs. If he winds up playing for the Saints, he will most likely play in the slot, as he is a good tackler with size but not breakaway speed. The Saints could use some depth at corner, as behind Kool-Aid McKinstry and Alontae Taylor most of the Saints corners have played mainly on special teams. Beanum likely will stick around as a member of the practice squad early in the year, and he may be called up to the active roster to cover for any injuries later in the season.

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Make sure you follow Canal Street Chronicles on X at @SaintsCSC, “Like” us on Facebook at Canal Street Chronicles, follow us on Instagram at @SaintsCSC, and make sure you’re subscribed to our YouTube channel. As always, you can follow me on X at @Hayden_Reel.

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...a-profile-dalys-beanum-south-dakota-state-fcs

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Former Saints CB Eli Apple regrets comments toward fanbase

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From beef to love - Apple reflects on his relationship with New Orleans.

Over the past couple of years, former New Orleans Saints cornerback Eli Apple hasn’t held back from taking shots at the franchise and its fanbase. But in a recent one-on-one interview with Arizona Cardinals insider Kyle Odegard for ReadWrite, the Los Angeles Chargers unrestricted free agent expressed regret for his remarks and seems to be moving on from social media trolling after reflecting on the backlash that followed.

Apple on regretting his social media beef with Who Dat Nation:​

“Oh, man. Honestly, that was one of my biggest mistakes for sure. It was just one of those moments where you are winning and feeling a type of way. So, yeah, I was just sitting there watching football and making my critiques, and then I’m still getting bad replies from the Saints fans. It’s those moments where you let a few bad fans kind of dictate something. My comments went and definitely rubbed people the wrong way. I got messages from everybody in New Orleans. So of course, I retract those statements and send nothing but love to everyone out there.”

Apple on feeling welcomed after his trade to New Orleans:​

“They brought me in and embraced everything about me, so honestly, it was nothing but love. Those are probably some of my favorite moments playing football. It felt like college. A lot of guys from Ohio State helped with that transition being traded (from the New York Giants). I remember getting that call. I’m like, ‘Damn, gotta pack up everything in a matter of hours, and I’m going to New Orleans, a completely different city that I’ve never been to before.’ And when I got there, it was nothing but love.”

Does this shift your view of the veteran defensive back after years of turmoil with the fanbase?

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...-cb-eli-apple-regrets-comments-toward-fanbase

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Saints UDFA profile: Omari Thomas

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What to know about the defensive tackle from Tennessee.

The New Orleans Saints signed 11 undrafted free agents to a deal after the NFL Draft. One of them is DT Omari Thomas from Tennessee.

A native of Memphis, Thomas spent five seasons with the Volunteers, starting for the past four. He is also a journalism major.

“I wanted to do something that’s not necessarily business,” Thomas said on the world according to Jakai podcast. “I wanted something where I could talk to people and still learn from other people, I’m in a class with and things like that. It’s something I really enjoyed.”

In his seasons with Tennessee, Thomas gathered over 100 total tackles. He recorded 23 tackles, three passes defended, and one sack in 2024, according to ESPN.

He claims that a coach on his peewee football team helped him fall in love with the game of football when he was a kid.

“Coach Tank, he always made me really enjoy being out there,” Thomas said on the World According to Jakaie podcast. “Being young, being able to just go hit somebody—it’s fun. That’s fun. That’s really where I grew the love of the game, for real.”

Saints fans will get their first look at Thomas in rookie minicamp, which is set to begin on May 8 and last until May 11.

If you would like to know more about who Omari Thomas is, check out his episode on The World According to Jakai podcast.

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/2025/5/2/24419678/saints-udfa-profile-omari-thomas

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Saints Way-Too-Early 2026 Mock Draft

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A preview of the future?

Yes, I know the 2025 NFL Draft was just last week, and we have no clue who in the New Orleans Saints draft class will contribute to this roster, but why not get excited about the future? Also, staying aware of some prospects who could be future Saints players is a good idea, so let’s start this mock draft!

Round 1 - EDGE/OLB Dani Dennis-Sutton (Penn State)​

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In the 2025 NFL Draft, the Saints addressed the trenches early, but on the offensive side of the ball. They could have also gone in the direction of defensive line, specifically an edge rusher/outside linebacker, but ended up not selecting that position until the 7th round. This is a glaring issue going into training camp, and with Cam Jordan nearing the end of his career, the Saints need to deal with this need early in the 2026 draft. As of now, there are a bunch of edge rusher prospects at the top of the class, and in this mock draft, Dani Dennis-Sutton is the selection. At Penn State, Dennis-Sutton stood out opposite of third overall pick Abdul Carter, and at times, looked like the best defensive lineman on the field. When looking at college stats, seeing improvement is extremely important. Dennis Sutton had 3 sacks his freshman year, 3.5 in his sophomore year, and 9 in his junior year. In the 2025/26 season, it wouldn’t be shocking to see his sack total improve. At first glance, Dennis Sutton is a powerful edge rusher who has a really good hand usage, utilizes his length, and does not stop moving. This shows up in his run defense, which may be the strength of his game.

The Saints need to improve their defensive line, and I know it may be “boring” to go with another edge rusher early in the draft, but Dani Dennis-Sutton is someone they may not be able to pass up on.

Round 2 - WR Carnell Tate (Ohio State)​

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The other position the Saints failed to deal with in the 2025 NFL Draft was wide receiver. New Orleans currently has a decent receiver room, but they are missing a big wide receiver, which would help a young QB and bring flexibility to this offense. Honestly, the Saints have been missing this WR archetype since releasing Michael Thomas. So, addressing this in the 2026 draft needs to happen, and Carnell Tate in the second round would be that answer. Tate is a great route runner, destroys zone coverage by finding space (like Chris Olave), is a quarterback’s best friend by adjusting to any throw, and he is a really good blocker. Tate is everything the Saints are missing.

Round 3 - TE Jack Endries (Texas)​

Photo by Harry How/Getty Images

The last of the day 2 selections sticks with the offense, and the Saints go with TE Jack Endries. Last season, Endries played for Pitt, but has transferred to Texas for the 2025/26 season. With all eyes on the Texas Longhorns and Arch Manning, this may have been the best decision for Endries’ draft stock. Looking at his performance on the field, Endries is really good at finding space against zone coverage, like what I talked about with Carnell Tate. Endries may struggle with separation against man coverage, but he still makes contested catches, even with a defender basically on top of him.

The Saints’ current TE room is not great, and getting a #2 behind Juwan Johnson, who has the potential to take that top spot, could be an option in the third round.

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Day 3 selections:​

Round 4 - OG Ar’maj Reed-Adams (Texas A&M)

• With Dillon Radunz and Trevor Penning set to be free agents, going with a guard should still be a priority for the Saints.

Round 4 - CB Daylen Everette (Georgia)

• The need for cornerback is going to depend on if Quincy Riley’s success, but I do think they address that position in free agency before the draft. Daylen Everette was the best player available, and getting another young cornerback wouldn’t hurt.

Round 5 - C Logan Jones (Iowa)

• Center is a position I want the Saints to address at some point in this draft. Eric McCoy is getting older, and starting to search for a player to take over the starting spot needs to happen soon. Selecting Logan Jones in the fifth will allow the Saints to sit him, learn behind McCoy, and be the backup until it is time for him to become the starter.

Round 6 - DT Tim Keenan III (Alabama)

• The Saints could see massive turnover in their defensive tackle room after this season, so they go with the best DT on the board.

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Make sure you follow Canal Street Chronicles on Twitter at @SaintsCSC, “Like” us on Facebook at Canal Street Chronicles, and make sure you’re subscribed to our YouTube channel. Follow my personal page @CalebYac for more!

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/2025/5/2/24420960/saints-way-too-early-2026-mock-draft

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Free agents the Saints could still sign

Daniel Bartel-Imagn Images

Some roster work needs to be done.

Going into the 2025 NFL Draft with nine selections, the New Orleans Saints had many chances to address positions of need throughout the roster. They did this, but not at the expense of reaching too much, which is always a good way to select prospects. Still, some positions that were selected, such as linebacker, defensive tackle, and safety, were not immediate needs for the 2025 season. These positions will become issues in the future, so it is good that the Saints have addressed them, but other positions were not dealt with in the draft or need more work. Also, now that the draft is complete, the Saints can sign free agents without worrying about affecting future compensatory selections in the 2026 NFL Draft. There are some great players still available, and if New Orleans wants to put their rookie QB in a situation to succeed, they may need to sign some of these free agents.

WR Keenan Allen​

Daniel Bartel-Imagn Images

One of the positions the Saints did not address in the NFL Draft was wide receiver. With Chris Olave, Rashid Shaheed, and Brandin Cooks as the main receivers on the roster, New Orleans has a decent group going into training camp. Still, they are missing that contested catch/big, bodied receiving threat that is needed in that group. One name comes to mind when looking at available free agents: Keenan Allen.

Last year with the Chicago Bears, Allen was rookie Caleb Williams favorite target and acted as that security blanket for the young QB. Allen has an ability to elevate the play of a QB, which is not something many wide receivers in the league can do. He also compliments the Saints’ current wider receiver room really well. The main issue with this signing is that someone in the original group of Olave, Shaheed, and Cooks will have to take a bit of a step back.

Allen is still a borderline WR 1 in this league, and if he signs for a team, he is going to want that type of production in the offense. This is something he dealt with in Chicago last year with their being a bit too many receivers in the offense. I would expect Shaheed to be the one to take this step back, but in the end, that may actually be best for the best. Shaheed is a deep threat/speedy receiver that could change the game on one play and utilizing him situationally would bring more flexibility to this offense. This would then create a wide receiver room with Chris Olave primarily on the outside, Keenan Allen and Brandin Cooks playing both outside and, in the slot, and Rashid Shaheed being utilized anywhere. Also, with injuries, all four players will probably get significant playing time throughout the season.

OLB Matthew Judon​

Brett Davis-Imagn Images

Arguably the top position the Saints needed to address in the NFL Draft was OLB/EDGE, and they waited until the 7th round to do this. Although I do think that pick, Fadil Diggs, was a steal and should have been drafted earlier, more investment in this position should still happen. Looking at the available options, Matthew Judon is one of the best OLBs still available. Yes, last season for the Falcons was very disappointing for Judon and was not worth what Atlanta gave up in that trade with the Patriots, but the Saints have an opportunity to buy low on Judon’s value.

This situation is perfect for New Orleans to swoop in, sign Judon on a 1-year prove it deal, and see what he can do on this defense. Only a few season ago, Judon had 15.5 sacks and was a dominant force for the New England Patriots. Even on a down year with the Falcons, he still had 5.5 sacks. Yes, for Atlanta, the trade was not worth what they got in Judon’s production, but if the Saints can get him on a cheaper contract, 5.5 sacks are perfectly fine. There is also still upside that Judon can shine in Brandon Staley’s scheme and raise his production.

QB Carson Wentz​

Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

With the release of Ben DiNucci, the Saints are without a veteran QB on their roster. Technically Derek Carr would be the veteran, but his present and future involvement with the team is unknown. The Saints will go into the regular season with 3 QBs on the roster (not including Derek Carr who would be on IR) and we already know two of the spots. Tyler Shough is the obvious choice for one of those openings, and the team will not give up on Rattler already, so he will be a likely choice for another one of the openings. That leaves one spot left. Shough is a rookie, and Rattler is going into his second year, so getting a real veteran QB that has been around the league to mentor these two would be a good idea. A popular name currently being connected with this idea has been Teddy Bridgewater, which is a great option, but I wanted to go with a different QB that may not be talked about enough, Carson Wentz.

The former #2 overall selection in the 2016 NFL Draft has been around the league since being traded away from the Philadelphia Eagles. In 2023, Wentz officially became a backup QB after being cut by the Commanders, and since then, he has been a part of the Los Angeles Rams and Kansas City Chiefs. With these very well coached teams, Wentz was on the sideline for important playoff games, and even the Super Bowl last year with the Chiefs. Experience like this is always a good thing to have on a sideline, but Wentz also brings something interesting to the QB room.

I mentioned before that Carson Wentz was a former #2 overall pick. Obviously, massive expectations are going to be thrown on a QB selected with that pick, but that also happening in a city like Philadelphia, it can become crushing for a young player. Although, Wentz was not phased, and before his injury, the Eagles were 11-2, with Wentz being propped up as a potential MVP. Having a QB that has had massive expectations, dealt with them, overcome them, and play at an MVP level is a great thing to have with Tyler Shough.

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Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/2025/5/2/24420222/free-agents-the-saints-could-still-sign

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Fleur-de-Links, May 2: Should the Saints look to add a receiver?

Stephen Lew-Imagn Images

Here are your daily New Orleans Saints links.

Saints have 5 picks in Top 100-Canal St Chronicles​

Out of the nine selections made by the New Orleans Saints in the 2025 NFL Draft, five of them made ESPN's Top 100 list.

Could Saints go get a receiver?-Saints on SI​

Many would agree that the Saints would benefit from one more receiver, but do you trade or go get a free agent? Here's one potential option:

locked in pic.twitter.com/QOGmpzIpiN

— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) May 1, 2025​

Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...ay-2-should-the-saints-look-to-add-a-receiver

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Marcus Yarns is the Saints’ next UDFA diamond in the rough

William Bretzger/Delaware News Journal / USA TODAY NETWORK

Did New Orleans do it again?

The strength of the 2025 NFL Draft class was the talent at running back. It had top talent with Ashton Jeanty and Omarion Hampton, selections throughout day 2, and late-round gems like Devin Neal. Every team in the NFL could have selected a running back prospect this year, but some still went undrafted, and the Saints got the best one available, Marcus Yarns.

At Delaware, Yarns was a three-year starter, contributing heavily to rushing and receiving games. In 2022, Yarns had a decent year with 481 rushing yards, 199 receiving yards, and 5 total touchdowns. Yarns was not the full-time starter just yet, but when he got that role in 2023, he broke onto the scene. He ended the season with 940 rushing yards, 15 rushing touchdowns, 311 receiving yards, and 3 receiving touchdowns. In the 2024 season, Yarns’ yards dropped a bit, but the most significant drop was in his rushing touchdowns, which were 6.

William Bretzger/Delaware News Journal / USA TODAY NETWORK

Now that the stats are covered, let us look at how Marcus Yarns got them. The strength of his game is speed. Yarns ran a 4.45 40-yard dash, and it shows on the field. He has a burst of speed that gets right past defenders, but he is also very elusive. Yarns has a juke move that will absolutely stun defenders. Being undersized at 193lbs, Yarns will not be a bruiser or running back that will have a heavy workload, but he has an ability to break out of tackles that a person his size should not have. Could that have been because of the competition Yarns was facing? Maybe, but seeing that ability is still a positive. In the receiving game, Yarns has flexibility to be a real threat. He is a type of player that offensive coordinators will love because of all the things they can do with him in the offense. Yarns is great in the screen game and any play that says, “Yarns, just go out run him”. If a linebacker has to cover him, it is over for that defender. In pass blocking, Yarns also tries very hard to hold up, but he still will need to improve in that area.

The chances of an undrafted free agent making a roster is always extremely low, especially if a team invested in that position in the draft. This is the situation with Marcus Yarns and the New Orleans Saints. Before the draft, New Orleans had a running back room of Alvin Kamara, Kendre Miller, Clyde Edwards-Helaire, and Jordan Mims. In the draft, the Saints selected Devin Neal late. This makes the running back room filled with five players already before signing Marcus Yarns. This is a similar situation to what happened with CB Rico Payton last season, but he ended up making the final 53-man roster, and I think Yarns can do the same. Alvin Kamara is obviously going to make the roster, but every other spot is up for grabs. Kendre Miller is a part of the last regime, has an extensive injury history, and struggles in pass blocking, so he may lose his spot. Although I like what Clyde Edwards-Helaire brought to the roster, I do not think it will be enough for him to make the team but could see him on the practice squad. This also stands true for Jordan Mims. The Saints’ 6th round selection Devin Neal is expected to make the team, so there is another spot taken, and I truly believe Marcus Yarns can take that last spot, and here is why.

Flexibility in the running back room is always a good thing. Alvin Kamara is elusive, patient, a threat in the receiving game, has some of the greatest contact balance ever, and is a mean blocker. Devin Neal is a running back that can take the majority of the workload, pick up short yardage, and still has the ability to make big plays. Marcus Yarns has true speed and acceleration, is elusive, and can be utilized throughout the receiving game. Each one of these players brings something different to the offense and each compliment the other’s game. Yarns may struggle to get on the field as a running back this season, but special teams are where he can get on the field early.

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Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...-is-the-saints-next-udfa-diamond-in-the-rough

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Contract details for the newest members of the Saints

Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images

Let’s take a look at how much New Orleans rookies are making.

The New Orleans Saints assembled one of their biggest draft classes in recent memory. Mickey Loomis is a big proponent of trading up, but instead, he stayed put and the Saints used all nine selections they came into the draft with.

With more draft picks means more money spent. According to Spotrac, the Saints will be spending $14,129,202 on their rookie this year and about 72 million over the next four. That’s much more than they’re accustomed to paying out, but when you’re rebuilding, you need a lot of young guys on cheap contracts.

Here’s a breakdown of each rookie’s contract.

All contract details provided by Spotrac.

Kelvin Banks - 4 years, $27,688,114​

The Saints’ first pick in the 2025 NFL Draft was Kelvin Banks. The former Texas OT will immediately help their offensive line out, and they get a guy who will likely start for four years on a cheap deal relative to an average offensive lineman’s salary.

Year 1: $5,034,202

Year 2: $6,292,753

Year 3: $7,551,304

Year 4: $8,809,855

Tyler Shough - 4 years, $10,793,226​

With the 40th pick in the draft, the Saints selected Tyler Shough. They’ll spend about 10 million dollars on him over the next four seasons, which is much lower than market value on a starting QB. If he turns out to be the guy, they’ll have a four-year window where they can spend elsewhere and build around him. If he’s not, it won’t cost them that much.

Year 1: $1,962,405

Year 2: $2,453,006

Year 3: $2,943,607

Year 4: $3,434,208

Vernon Broughton - 4 years, $6,634,052​

With their first of two picks in the third round, the Saints selected Vernon Broughton, a DT from Texas. He’ll earn over six million dollars over the next four years, and if he can develop into a solid player, it will really help them on defense while they wait out the rest of some of their veteran’s salaries.

Year 1: $1,206,191

Year 2: $1,507,739

Year 3: $1,809,287

Year 4: $2,110,835

Jonas Sanker - 4 years, $6,242,188​

Jonas Sanker will make about 400k less than Broughton through the course of his four-year deal. The Saints have a couple expensive veterans at safety, so getting a cheap, young talent back there will certainly help.

Year 1: $1,134,943

Year 2: $1,418,679

Year 3: $1,702,415

Year 4: $1,986,151

Danny Stutsman - 4 years, $5,226,463​

Danny Stutsman was the Saints first day three pick, and he’s slated to make a little over five million dollars during the course of his rookie deal. With Demario Davis, who’s eating up nearly seven million dollars in cap space, only getting older, Stutsman could prove to be a cheap replacement when the time comes.

Year 1: $1,096,616

Year 2: $1,261,616

Year 3: $1,376,616

Year 4: $1,491,616

Quincy Riley - 4 years, $5,085,589​

Riley was picked about 20 spots later than Stutsman and is set to make about five million bucks in his rookie deal. The Saints have a lot of young corners on cheap deals, but they’ll have to pay Alontae Taylor soon if they want to keep him around in the future.

Year 1: $1,061,397

Year 2: $1,226,397

Year 3: $1,341,397

Year 4: $1,456,397

Devin Neal - 4 years, $4,450,838​

The Saints drafted Devin Neal to help out in the run game as soon as this year. They have Alvin Kamara on a big deal right now, so the goal was the get an effective runner on a cheap deal. They missed on Kendre Miller, so hopefully Neal can play the role they thought Miller could.

Year 1: $902,710

Year 2: $1,067,710

Year 3: $1,182,710

Year 4: $1,297,710

Moliki Matavao - 4 years, $4,301,474​

Moliki Matavao was the last non-comp pick of the seventh round, meaning he, and everyone else picked after him, are making the same four-year, 4.3-million-dollar deal.

Year 1: $865,369

Year 2: $1,030,369

Year 3: $1,145,369

Year 4: $1,260,369

Fadil Diggs - 4 years, $4,301,474​

With their final pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Saints selected Fadil Diggs to help out off the edge. He’ll make the same amount on his four-year rookie deal as Matavao and the other seventh round comp picks.

Year 1: $865,369

Year 2: $1,030,369

Year 3: $1,145,369

Year 4: $1,260,369

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Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...s-of-the-new-orleans-saints-rookies-nfl-draft

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Saints’ 2025 draft class assigned jersey numbers

Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images

Rookie digits are locked in with minicamp on deck.

The New Orleans Saints’ 2025 draft class has officially been assigned jersey numbers as they gear up for rookie minicamp on Thursday:

Round 1, Pick 9: OT Kelvin Banks Jr. - #71 (last worn by Ryan Ramczyk - 2024)

Round 2, Pick 40: QB Tyler Shough - #6 (last worn by Willie Gay - 2024)

Round 3, Pick 71: DT Vernon Broughton - #91 (last worn by Kendal Vickers - 2024)

Round 3, Pick 93: S Jonas Sanker - #33 (last worn by Jordan Mims - 2024)

Round 4, Pick 112: LB Danny Stutsman - #47 (last worn by Khaleke Hudson - 2024)

Round 4, Pick 131: CB Quincy Riley - #29 (last worn by Paulson Adebo - 2024)

Round 6, Pick 184: RB Devin Neal - #30 (last worn by Roderic Teamer - 2024)

Round 7, Pick 248: TE Moliki Matavao - #80 (last worn by Jermaine Jackson - 2024)

Round 7, Pick 254: DE Fadil Diggs - #40 (last worn by Chase Hansen - 2022)

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Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...ints-2025-draft-class-assigned-jersey-numbers

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Saints DE Cam Jordan recognized by the New Orleans City Council as they declare May 8th Cam Jordan Day

Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images

Jordan was recognized for his contributions to the community since being drafted by New Orleans in 2011.

Early today, New Orleans Saints defensive end Cam Jordan received a very special honor from the New Orleans City Council as they officially declared May 8th as Cam Jordan Day.

Drafted in 2011, Jordan was honored for his outstanding contributions to the community throughout his 14-year career in New Orleans.

The event began with a procession by the Edna Karr high School Band, with Saints owner Gayle Benson, Saints PA announcer Mark Romig, Louisiana Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser and Jordan’s family in attendance

Mrs. Benson welcomed Jordan and his family to the event and praised his unwavering efforts on and off the field. Mentioning that the Saints all-time sack leader has only missed two games during his career. She also recognized Jordan’s establishment of his foundation and his outstanding efforts on their off days by regularly contributing to the community as Jordan has made almost 300 school visits.

Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser commended Jordan’s achievements and call him a true Louisiana ambassador, not just a player but as a friend.

The band from @EdnaKarrHS showing @camjordan94 love on #CamJordanDay pic.twitter.com/xBVfaoPFkf

— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) May 8, 2025​

Jordan was then presented a plaque made Edna Karr’s High School’s art department as a thank you for his achievements and contributions to the youth community.

Jordan said, “My cup has been overflowed over.” Calling it an amazing feeling being drafted by the Saints, as well as having a dad who also played in the league and finding his wife, having and raising their 4 children in New Orleans. He continued by thanking Mrs. Benson, saying that she is a member of his family as well as the Saints organization for their unending support.

He also thanked his wife and children, calling New Orleans their home, and that he hopes to be here the next 1000 years.

Jordan said, “Being New Orleans, you catch the feeling, you catch the vibe and it's so hard not to want to be a part of it. It's so hard not to want to be in New Orleans, feel like a family because everything feels so familiar.

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Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...-council-as-they-declare-may-8-cam-jordan-day

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Best available free agents for the Saints: WR/EDGE

Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images

Let’s take a look at who’s still out there.

With the dust settling from the NFL Draft and rookie mini-camp kicking into full gear, my eyes instinctively look towards what football players are still sitting out there for one reason or another as the game of musical chairs is slowing down (chairs being roster spots). I’m not thinking about this with a salary cap perspective as I was a political science major and went to law school because I took 3 credit hours of math that whole time, not to mention that the New Orleans Saints front office has shown over time that the salary cap is just an illusion that they will deal with in the future.

I’ll also surrender that there are some positions with no need to add anyone. My dream of Aaron Rodgers suiting up in black and gold is probably dead, much to the delight of most everyone reading this. However, I do think that there’s some folks out there that might still be looking for a spot and could really help out the Saints.

Wide Receiver:​

I actually am higher on the wide receiver room than I probably should be but I’m a rosy, red glasses kind of fan in the off season. However, given that I’m of the belief that there’s going to be a young QB taking most of the snaps, I don’t think you can have a shortage of talented pass catchers to help clean up some of their growing pains.

Keenan Allen - Although he’s likely looking to team up with a contender (which I think the Saints are, see back to that rose red glasses comment) he put up 70 receptions, 744 yards and 7 touchdowns last year. His numbers are trending down from ‘23 to ‘24 but he’s a reliable pass catcher and there was also a team switch in there.

Amari Cooper - Similar to Allen, last year with the Buffalo Bills Cooper had the lowest receptions, yards and touchdowns of his career.

Gabe Davis - Sensing a trend here, Gabe Davis also had a down year comparatively this year with 20 receptions on 239 yards and 2 touchdowns, all career lows. However, he is a bit younger and might be less looking to catch on with a contender than the other two.

All three guys are over 6’0 tall receivers who could provide a veteran target for Rattler or Shough, all three had down years on a new team and now find themselves searching for a new spot. Ultimately, I think if I had to pick one, I would go with Allen, getting him on a one-year deal would minimize future cap issues while also adding some veteran presence to the position room.

Edge Rusher:​

Obviously, edge rusher is going to be a concern if for nothing other than depth. Cam Jordan is probably my favorite player, and I will be convinced that he can get into the backfield until he proves he can’t, and maybe I’ll be convinced a year after he retires that he could still take a few snaps. However, with the position group getting a bit older, it might be time to look at some depth pieces.

Von Miller - Released by the Bills, Von Miller still managed to get after the QB last year with 6 sacks, obviously he’s not the guy who was putting up double digit sacks anymore, but he does raise chickens and still seems to be able to get it done with less snaps.

Za’Darius Smith - I have a soft spot in my heart for this guy, I always have, and I have no clue why, maybe because he went to Kentucky and I spent most of my life in the state. At 32 years old he still was able to get it done last year for the Detroit Lions, racking up 9 sacks and 35 total tackles. He’s clocking in at double the snap count of Von Miller as well last year.

Jadeveon Clowney - Former number one overall pick, still getting snap counts last year in the 600s with one of the better tackling years he’s had in his career. I still see him as the guy who did this:

Jadeveon Clowney ROCKED him with this hit @ESPNCFB pic.twitter.com/dphm9HnKMz

— ESPN (@espn) May 23, 2020​

I’m not sure any college play lives rent free in my head more than that one.

Give me Clowney, he’s bounced around but was in the division last year with the Carolina Panthers, I think he still has some juice in there. If he can have one more hit like that college one, it’s all worth it.

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Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/2025/5/9/24426378/best-available-free-agents-wr-edge-saints

 

[New Orleans Saints]

Saints sign six of their nine 2025 draft picks

Photo by Perry Knotts/Getty Images

The signings come just before rookie minicamp tomorrow.

The New Orleans Saints have announced that they have signed six of their nine 2025 NFL Draft picks. OT Kelvin Banks Jr., LB Danny Stutsman, CB Quincy Riley, RB Devin Neal, TE Moliki Matavao and DE Fadil Diggs have all agreed to 4-year deals.

The news of the signings come just ahead of rookie minicamp tomorrow. The remaining unsigned draft picks are 2nd round pick QB Tyler Shough, 3rd round picks DT Vernon Broughton and Safety Jonas Sanker, as those picks usually do take a little longer to negotiate.

#Saints sign draft picks, including top pick Kelvin Banks Jr

Story: https://t.co/qhhKyQPAM9#SaintsDraft | @Shift4 pic.twitter.com/cwqAcLyL4L

— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) May 9, 2025​

While full contract details are not yet available, Kelvin Banks Jr. reportedly signed a deal that is $27.73M fully guaranteed with a $16.8M signing bonus per Ian Rapoport.

Stay tuned to Canal Street Chronicles for the latest news and information from this weekend’s Saints rookie minicamp.

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Source: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.c...aints-sign-six-of-their-nine-2025-draft-picks