A realistic outcome that could make sense.
Entering the 2026 NFL Draft, the New Orleans Saints are left with a couple of major needs after free agency. The most glaring are WR and EDGE.
One of the obvious messages from free agency was that the offense needed upgrades, and they got that done. As I mentioned, WR is still a need, but the lack of big signings on defense made it clear that going with that side of the ball at 8 would be very likely. Also, with the top of the draft filled with top defensive talent, the Saints could go in that direction first. Still, throwing out offense as an option is not the smartest idea, and at 8, there's a good chance one of the top WRs is available.
Carnell Tate has been the name frequently mocked before the Saints' selection, and although there is still a chance he could be there at 8, the Saints may have their eyes on another WR.
Besides Tate, Makai Lemon and Jordyn Tyson are the other options at 8, but with Tyson's injury issues, it really just leaves Lemon. The Saints also have a clear interest in Lemon, hosting him for a top-30 visit before the draft.
In the Saints' offense, Lemon will be a primary slot receiver who is willing to put his body in harm's way to make the play. His ability to get open is truly impressive, and after the catch, he can make big plays at any time. At 5-foot-11, he may seem like the wrong option for New Orleans, but despite his height, he can go up against anyone and make the catch, no matter how much contact.
That yards after catch ability is something completely missing from this team, and it could be what the Saints really value when searching for a new WR2. Lemon would be able to add that, and he could become a top option for QB Tyler Shough.
The main issue with Lemon is his versatility. Although he has had some snaps on the outside, he is a slot receiver. He may still be able to play in the NFL, but keeping him in the slot will get the best out of him, and if that's the main issue with him, then any team will be happy with selecting him. The slot receiver has become such an important part of today's game, and Lemon can be one of the best in the NFL.