Last year, the New Orleans Saints believed they found their franchise quarterback by selecting Tyler Shaw in the second round. This time, the 2026 NFL Draft offers an opportunity to supplement Shaw with more weapons to help him succeed, or possibly help boost a Brandon Staley-led defense that is respectably ranked 16th in points allowed. In an ideal world, the Saints would accomplish both.
While the Saints have a total of eight selections heading into the three-day event, all eyes are focused on what New Orleans will do with the eighth overall selection. Whether it's a receiver, pass-rusher, or someone else, it's clear the Saints will have a chance to add blue-chip talent.
Recently, ESPN's Matt Bowen identified the perfect fit for a top-20 prospect. In doing so, he identified star pass-rusher Reuben Benn Jr. as the ideal man for the Saints.
"There is a need to add a pass rusher here in New Orleans, as veteran Cameron Jordan is still a free agent. Additionally this is an opportunity for coordinator Brandon Staley to add a potential game-wrecker to his defense. With Ben's ability to turn the corner, he can be schemed out of loaded fronts to get one-on-one pass-rush matchups. His strength at the point of attack means he should Can also flip inside nickel fronts. And is strong on the edge against the run game (54 tackles on the designed rush in 2025). Simply put, Benn has a sense of toughness that should translate to the pro level and he put up his best tape overall during the College Football Playoff.
ESPN's Matt Bowen on Ruben Benn/Saints
Of course, there's no guarantee that Benn, who is viewed as a potential top-five pick, will even be available when the Saints are on the clock. However, there is no doubt that Benn can provide the pass-rush spark that New Orleans desperately needs, especially with Cameron Jordan still unsigned in free agency.
Ben is an ultra-athletic edge rusher who has the elite ability to bend and outmaneuver opponents. But it's not just Gumby on edge; Despite having short arms, he has proven to be an effective run-stopper. He'll be an impact player on all three downs, and he's exactly the type of player the Saints should consider at No. 8, if he's still available.
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