After their loss last week to the Atlanta Falcons, the New Orleans Saints stopped a potential win streak, but rose in the 2026 NFL Draft order. With a 2-9 record, the draft has been the focus for this team throughout most of the season.
Many people have discussed QB prospects as options for this team, but QB Tyler Shough is doing enough to go in a different direction.
Saints Go With Defense at Pick No. 3
With how limited the top-end talent is in the 2026 draft class, the Saints are going to need to stay at the top of the order to get one of these prospects. There is a strong argument that the QBs are not among those players, and the other prospects are all on the defensive side of the ball, so who could New Orleans choose?
According to the new 7-round mock draft from analyst Ian Cummings, at the third overall pick, the Saints select dynamic Ohio State LB/EDGE Arvell Reese.
If there is any chance that Reese is available when the Saints select, he is the no-brainer choice. Looking at his stats, Reese currently has 6.5 sacks and 59 tackles this season. Playing both LB and EDGE, while also still developing as a pass rusher, his total sack number is much lower than what his potential number could be with more time.
Reese is an athletic freak who can beat any blocker with speed and power. If an opposing rusher attempts to run his way, there is a really good chance the play will be blown up, or little yards will be gained. As a pass rusher, as mentioned earlier, he is still developing, but he already appears to be getting accustomed to the position.
Now, from the Saints’ perspective, Reese would be a perfect fit for this team. Just starting with the roster, New Orleans is missing high-level talent, and Reese would bring that. Currently, the Saints ranked 21st among all defenses according to PFSN’s Defensive Impact Metric.
In addition, Reese is a perfect fit in DC Brandon Staley’s defense. Currently, none of the Saints’ edge rushers are true outside linebackers who can be effective dropping back in coverage and rushing the passer. This is what Reese would be in this defense.