Who are some value options for the Saints at slot receiver?
The New Orleans Saints must find a slot receiver during the 2026 NFL Draft. Chris Olave and Devaughn Vele are both outside receivers, which leaves the inside wide open. It’s vital the Saints can find someone for this role, as a slot can be perceived as a quarterback's best friend. The Saints likely won’t address this in round one (barring Makai Lemon), which will force them to find some value. To help with that, here are five underrated slot receivers that the Saints should consider.
Antonio Williams-
Antonio Williams has played a vital role in Clemson’s offense for the past four seasons. His IQ, nuanced route running and ability after the catch make him a reliable option who’s constantly open. His lingering hamstring issues and lack of explosiveness will make him drop to late day-two or early day-three, but that’s an ideal range for the Saints. Williams would be an excellent complement to Chris Olave and give Tyler Shough a much-needed playmaker.
Skyler Bell-
Skyler Bell burst onto the national scene with a stellar 2025 season - tallying 102 receptions, 1,282 yards and 13 touchdowns. The former UCONN Husky is a well-rounded receiver who doesn’t have any major weaknesses. He’s a snappy route runner, explosive after the catch and reliable. Some scouts don’t believe he has an A-list skill, which will limit his draft stock (day-two). Regardless, he’s an enticing target who would elevate the Saints offense.
Cyrus Allen-
Cyrus Allen is a dynamic receiver who creates ample separation at the break of routes. He masterfully sells double moves and has rapid acceleration/deceleration. This makes it challenging for an opposing cornerback to stay with him. The biggest red flag around Allen is his run blocking, which is practically nonexistent. He doesn’t have the required strength, which causes him to be an indicator of a pass play when on the field. He’s still a day-three option for the Saints, but won’t immediately be an every-down contributor.
Brenen Thompson
Brenen Thompson’s game can be summarized in two words: blazing speed. The five-foot-nine, 170-pound receiver lacks size, but compensates with his world-class tempo. He ran a superb 4.26 40-yard dash at the 2026 NFL Combine, which shows up in his film. It’s rare for a defender to keep pace with Thompson, as a safety providing help is necessary. He’s one of my favorite day-three options for the Saints and would form an explosive pairing with Chris Olave.
Lewis Bond-
Lewis Bond is the most underrated prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft. He receives a bad wrap from being associated with Boston College, a weak football program. Despite this, his elite IQ allows him to read the opposing coverage, which he can then pick apart. He’s a great route runner and is consistently open. Bond isn’t an outstanding athlete, causing him to be a day-three player, but is still an intriguing option for the Saints.