New Orleans Saints jump atop the 2026 NFL Draft order with another frustrating loss

When your team struggles in a major way, fans begin to look toward the offseason sooner rather than later. For the New Orleans Saints, expectations entering this campaign were not particularly high, and the team's performances have proven those doubts correct on a nearly weekly basis. With concern about the quarterback position in the future and overall youth talent around the roster, the 2026 NFL Draft will be massively important for the coaching staff and front office for the black and gold.

Saints slotted at top overall pick in 2026 NFL Draft after 1-7 start to season

After eight weeks of play, New Orleans has just one victory. They are one of three teams around the NFL, along with the Tennessee Titans and New York Jets, who sit at 1-7. According to Tankathon, the Saints currently hold the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Due to strength of schedule, the Saints are currently sitting ahead of Tennessee and New York for that spot.

With this sort of info, it is easy to assume that Kellen Moore will look for his next quarterback in the 2026 class. If the Saints keep a pick inside the top five, it's tough to see them passing on that opportunity to select a quarterback, regardless of their investment in rookie QB Tyler Shough or hopes for Spencer Rattler entering the season.

Shough entered the team's Week 8 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but the outcome wasn't incredibly impressive. After the game, Moore acknowledged the tough decision and said that next weeks' starter is still to be determined. Turning to Shough for the remainder of the season may make the most sense, considering New Orleans spent a top 40 selection on him in this year's draft.

It remains to be seen how Kellen Moore will navigate a draft with such a premium pick, but as the losses and disappointing performances mount, the more likely that scenario seems for New Orleans. Only time will tell.