Mel Kiper Jr. identifies offensive playmakers like Carnell Tate and Kenyon Sadiq as potential game-changers to propel the Saints from rebuilding to contention.
The New Orleans Saints (6-11) are not that far from being a force in the NFC South, if not the entire conference, in 2026. One addition could be the spark the team needs to go from last to first in a division that sent the Carolina Panthers to the postseason with an 8-9 record.
For the Saints to make such a leap, it could be an offensive playmaker that makes all the difference. Some has slotted Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love as the team's clear pick, but a receiver could be the answer for the team.
Mel Kiper Jr. gave his prospect big board prediction on Wednesday, and discussed a couple of players that could fall to the Saints at No. 8. His eighth-ranked prospect was Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate. Kiper wrote his thoughts on the player.
"Ohio State has turned into Wide Receiver U, with Emeka Egbuka being the most recent star wideout to come out of Columbus. And while most of the college football world focused on Jeremiah Smith (who isn't eligible for the 2026 draft), Tate put up some serious numbers and showed why he is a top prospect for this class. Tate produced big plays on a regular basis, averaging 17.2 yards per catch this season. He is a precise route runner, has great hands and displays outstanding body control. And he'll also happily block for ball carriers, which NFL coaches love to see. Tate had a lower-body injury earlier this season and missed a little time."
New Orleans Saints tight end Juwan Johnson (83) runs for a gain past New England Patriots linebacker Robert Spillane (14) during the second half at Caesars Superdome. Stephen Lew-Imagn ImagesOne unorthodox pick selection could be Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq who ranks No. 9 on Kiper's big board, though tight end's do not always add Top 10 value. Kiper discussed Sadiq's game.
"Sadiq is loaded with physical traits. He has the explosion to hurdle defenders in the open field. He has the vision and speed to cause conflict after the catch, with almost half his 2025 yardage coming after the ball is in his hands. And he's nearly impossible to match against because of his quickness and size. Sadiq was consistent this season, and he should be the first tight end off the board."
What direction the Saints go will be worth watching. With Dante Moore returning to Oregon at quarterback for another season, the draft got leaner. Another quality pick, perhaps even at a position other than quarterback, will be off the board by pick No. 8. We'll see where the Saints go with their selection.