SAINTS SQUAD SHOW: New Orleans Saints Could SHAKE UP 2026 NFL DRAFT With Trades

The New Orleans Saints could make a seismic shift in the 2026 NFL Draft by trading up to secure elite defensive talent, according to a mock draft breakdown on the Locked On Saints podcast. The hosts argue that drafting Caleb Downs at pick 8—despite his safety position—is a no-brainer, given his 'premier' role in Brandon Staley’s defense and his potential to become an instant All-Pro. They then trade down to 33 to land return specialist Casey Concepcion, emphasizing the need for a dynamic special teams player after losing Rasheed Shahid. The draft strategy prioritizes high-impact players over positional need, with a focus on building a versatile, aggressive defense through picks like Anthony Hill, Ndambe Tucker, and Oscar Delp. The episode also explores the Saints’ financial flexibility, noting their $76 million in 2027 cap space and innovative contract restructuring, which enables bold moves. A standout theme is the debate between 'best player available' and 'need-based' drafting—where the hosts conclude that a balanced, context-driven approach is optimal. Finally, the hosts share personal offseason wishes, including adding a top-tier edge rusher, building around Tyler Shuck, and even calling to gauge the price of Dexter Lawrence, signaling a team poised to make aggressive, strategic moves. The episode reveals a Saints front office that values long-term flexibility, financial ingenuity, and high-ceiling talent over conventional draft logic.