An interesting trade for the Saints.
During the 2026 NFL Draft, the New Orleans Saints were able to get some great players throughout, and now, many of the positional needs have been filled. The Saints had 8 picks in the draft, but they got 9 players in the 3-day event. This was due to an interesting trade that New Orleans made during day 3.
During the 5th round, the Saints traded away pick 150 to the Las Vegas Raiders for Tyree Wilson and a 7th rounder. This move came out of nowhere, but it made too much sense for the Saints. The names available on the board that could fit their edge rush need were really not good enough for that 150th pick, so, trading it away for a former top-10 pick was a better move.
It is clear that Wilson's career has not started off the way many believed, but there is still something there. A bit of a flashback, Wilson was selected at 7th overall in 2023, and he was perceived as a very developmental EDGE that has all the tools to be one of the best defensive players in the NFL. Instead of that happening, Wilson was instead a major draft bust. Against the run, he really struggles, and when in pass rush, Wilson does not have the development to make a consistent impact on plays throughout games.
So, what is he going to do on the Saints roster next season?
Well, almost like Chase Young a few years ago, Wilson is going to be able to develop on a fresh new team, and the hope is that he can become a great EDGE. At worst, Wilson will leave after this season (when his rookie contract expires), and the trade will not be a successful move. That will hurt the Saints' defense a bit, but he is only considered to be a depth EDGE that could become something better later.
It is going to be very interesting to see how Staley utilizes Wilson next season. His run defense makes him a liability, so playing in that 3-4 DE role may not be the best, even if he has the tools to make it happen. Or, the other option is playing Wilson on passing downs, but as I mentioned, he still needs to develop in that area.
Time will tell if the Saints can strike gold with this trade, but as of now, Wilson will be a depth piece on the roster.