Gemini AI projected draft for the Saints

Curious to see how close this will be...

Based on the most recent mock drafts and big board rankings following the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine, here is a full 7-round simulated draft for the New Orleans Saints.

This simulation accounts for the Saints' recent free-agency signings (including Travis Etienne and David Edwards) and the emergence of Tyler Shough as the franchise quarterback.

New Orleans Saints 2026 Simulated Draft

1 No. 8Carnell Tate WR Ohio State
2 No. 42 Malachi Lawrence EDGE UCF
3 No. 73 Treydan Stukes CB Arizona
4 No. 132 Jager BurtonI OL Kentucky
4 No. 136 Kaytron Allen RB Penn State
5 No. 150 DeMonte Capehart DT Clemson
5 No. 172 Ar’Maj Reed-Adams OG Texas A&M
6 No. 190 Tacario Davis CB

Key Simulation Logic & Analysis

Round 1: Carnell Tate, WR (Ohio State)
While defensive ends like Rueben Bain Jr. were considered, the simulation prioritizes giving Tyler Shough a premier "Z" receiver. Tate is a refined route runner with some of the best hands in the class. Pairing him with fellow Buckeye Chris Olave creates a nightmare for NFC South secondaries and provides insurance if Olave's contract situation remains unresolved.

Round 2: Malachi Lawrence, EDGE (UCF)
With Cameron Jordan nearing the end of his career and Chase Young on a short-term outlook, the Saints need "juice" off the edge. Lawrence is a "toolsy" pass rusher who impressed scouts at the Combine with his first-step explosion and "deep bag" of pass-rush moves.

Round 3: Treydan Stukes, CB (Arizona)
The Saints have a history of value-hunting at defensive back. Stukes is a high-IQ "STAR" defender capable of playing the slot. He fills a critical depth need following the departure of several veteran secondary members over the last two seasons.

Round 4 & 5: Building the Trenches
Jager Burton (Kentucky): A versatile interior lineman who can provide depth at both guard spots and center.

DeMonte Capehart (Clemson): At 313 lbs, Capehart is a massive interior presence who can eat blocks and allow the Saints' linebackers (like the newly signed Kaden Elliss) to play clean.

Late Round Value: Kaytron Allen (RB) & Tacario Davis (CB)
Kaytron Allen: Even with Travis Etienne and Alvin Kamara on the roster, the Saints add a "bruiser" back who excels in short-yardage and goal-line situations.

Tacario Davis: A 6-foot-4 corner who fits the physical profile the Saints have traditionally coveted. He is a developmental project who could eventually transition to safety.