Saints Draft Caleb Downs: Game-Changer

0:00On April 22nd, the New Orleans Saints hold the 8th pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, putting them in prime position for a game changer. In ESPN's latest mock from Peter Shreger, they snaggle Hyal State's safety, Caleb Downes, instead of the buzzed about wide receiver, Carnell Tate. Saints' defensive coordinator, Brandon Staley, sees this as a smart move, especially after losing quarterback Alan Taitaylor to the Tennessee Titans Inn, free agency. Shreger points out New Orleans shipped out defensive talent this off season, and Staley could unlock Downes like he did with Derwin James in LA. Fans and analysts love Tate as the flashy pair, but Downes brings real defensive grit that fits the rebuild. He's coming off a strong Buckeye season with two interceptions, two forced fumbles, and 45 solo tackles. Downes has snagged two picks every college year, starting as a freshman at Alabama under Nick Saven. He's don't always go high, but he's elite value here. Meanwhile, Shreger mocks Tate off the board right before at seven to the Washington commanders,

1:03making Downes the perfect pivot that bolsters the secondary without missing a beat. That's the story for today, NFL News Today, driven by AI, I'm Corey with the story.