New Orleans Saints Roster Updates After 2026 NFL Draft and Free Agency
Introduction
The New Orleans Saints have completed their initial 90-man roster after the 2026 NFL Draft, the signing of a veteran edge rusher, and the addition of ten undrafted rookie free agents.
Main Body
The current roster includes eight draft picks and ten undrafted players, such as kicker Mason Shipley and defensive tackle Jay'Viar Suggs. General Manager Mickey Loomis emphasized that this number is only a starting point. As a result, the team will need to cut players to reach the 90-man limit before minicamp begins in June. On the offensive side, the team has focused on the wide receivers and the offensive line. There are currently 14 wide receivers, which is much higher than the usual eight players. Therefore, many players in this position will likely be released. Meanwhile, the team signed David Edwards to strengthen the left guard position, although the center position remains weak and relies heavily on Erik McCoy. Regarding the defense, the team is changing its approach to edge rushers and linebackers. The additions of Anfernee Jennings and Tyree Wilson suggest a change in the veteran rotation. Furthermore, the linebacker group lacks depth, which may be due to the priorities set by coach Brandon Staley. In the secondary, rookies like Lorenzo Styles Jr. and DeShawn Jones are competing for the nickelback role. Some veteran players, such as Cesar Ruiz and Bryan Bresee, are under pressure to perform well to keep their spots or earn contract extensions, while Alvin Kamara's future remains uncertain.
Conclusion
The New Orleans Saints are currently managing a transition period. They must now balance their excess of wide receivers with a lack of depth at center and linebacker before training camp starts in July.