Brett Davis-Imagn Images

Re-Grading the New Orleans Saints 2025 Draft

Originally posted on Football Analysis | By Aaron Sauter | Last updated Mar 17, 2026 12:32 PM ET

Coming into the 2025 NFL draft, the New Orleans Saints needed a draft that would help reset their roster to begin the Kellen Moore era. The Saints’ two biggest needs before the 2025 draft were a cornerstone for their offensive line and a quarterback of the future who would grow into a franchise quarterback. Early in this draft, the Saints accomplished both of those goals with offensive tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. and quarterback Tyler Shough.

Offensive tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. became a Day 1 starter for the Saints and ended up locking down the blindside at left tackle. The instant success of Banks allowed the Saints to move Taliese Fuaga to right tackle, fortifying their offensive line. In addition, quarterback Tyler Shough became the Saints’ starting quarterback in Week 9 and, after leading the Saints to three game-winning drives, solidified his standing as the starter.

New Orleans Saints 2025 Draft Class

Round	Pick	Player	Position
1	9	Kelvin Banks Jr.	OT
2	40	Tyler Shough	QB
3	71	Vernon Broughton	DT
3	93	Jonas Sanker	S
4	112	Danny Stutsman	LB
4	131	Quincy Riley	CB
6	184	Devin Neal	RB
7	248	Moliki Matavao	TE
7	254	Fadil Diggs	EDGE

During the mid-rounds of the 2025 draft, the New Orleans Saints loaded up on defense. Defensive tackle Vernon Broughton became a rotational player with an opportunity to earn a larger role if he develops his pass-rush skills. Safety Jonas Sanker, with his high football IQ, emerged as a defensive leader during his rookie season. He finished tied for the team lead in takeaways and total tackles. The Saints also got significant production from linebacker Danny Stutsman, the primary special-teams contributor, who led in tackles and played key roles on kickoff and punt coverage.

The Saints also found a collection of late-round gems who became high-quality rotational players on both the offensive and defensive sides of the ball. Cornerback Quincy Riley earned an opportunity to contribute in the Saints’ defensive secondary, and he ended up finishing the season 4th in pass breakups with 10. In addition, running back Devin Neal, tight end Moliki Matavao, and edge rusher Fadil Diggs all found ways to get on the field for the Saints and could grow into larger roles next season.

New Orleans Saints 2025 Draft Re-Grade = A

During the 2025 draft, the New Orleans Saints successfully reset their roster and built a new foundation to continue building on the seeds planted by their 2025 draft class. An improved offensive line and quarterback are in a great position to lead a renaissance for the New Orleans Saints. On the other hand, the Saints also found contributors on the defensive side of the ball, providing much-needed youth to the New Orleans defense. The next step is for the Saints to stack another great draft class with this one during the 2026 NFL draft.

Make sure that you check out, Re-Grading the Atlanta Falcons 2025 Draft

This article first appeared on Football Analysis and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: