How The Saints Plan To Trade Up In The 2026 NFL Draft

The New Orleans Saints have a history of making trades during the NFL Draft. The front office seems to lack patience in the Draft, but maybe its more about knowing the specific players you want, and what they're worth to you.

A lot of hardcore NFL Draft followers are starting to say the 2026 cycle looks like something Saints fans have seen before. The team often trades future picks to get a player...but the rumored 2026 trade that is catching fire online involves picks from just this year's draft. Not to mention the fact it would see the Saints jump into the Top 3 picks.

New Orleans Saints Trade Rumors With Cardinals

Reports and rumors suggest the Saints are in talks with the Arizona Cardinals for the 3rd overall pick in the draft. This move involves the Saints sending their current first round pick, and a pile of later round picks, to move into the top three spots on the board.

One major NFL Draft reporter does think there will be a little taste of future picks in the trade. Todd McShay has said that he expects the package going back to the Cardinals to include New Orleans' 8th overall pick, their Second Round pick this year, and their 2027 Second Round pick.

With the Saints adding Travis Etienne Jr. in free agency, and still having Alvin Kamara on the roster, there's not much chance they're trading up for Jeremiyah Love (running back, Notre Dame)...so what are they trying to get to?

Arvell Reese #8 of the Ohio State Buckeyes during the game against the Wisconsin Badgers(Photo by John Fisher/Getty Images)

From the sounds of draft experts like McShay, they're targeting edge rusher Arvell Reese. Apparently the draft stock on Reese is rising, and the Saints feel like they need to jump 4-5 teams to be able to guarantee they get him.

NFL Draft 2026 Schedule and Details

The 2026 NFL Draft is starting on April 23, 2026. The opening round will take place on Thursday night. After teams finish their First Round picks, they will start preparing for the Second and Third Rounds on Friday. You will usually see movement at the top of the Second Round, as teams adjust to which players are left that have First Round grades.

Pittsburgh will serve as the host city for the three-day event. Fans expect movement from teams like the Saints throughout the weekend...the whole thing starts on Thursday, and ends on Saturday evening.