The New Orleans Saints have officially welcomed their new draft class as rookies Kelvin Banks Jr., Tyler Shough, and others reported for minicamp. This event showcases the Saints' nine draft selections from 2025 along with undrafted free agents and tryout players. The atmosphere was vibrant as high-profile picks like offensive tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. and quarterback Tyler Shough were fitted for helmets and gear, marking an exciting step in their NFL journey. The minicamp serves as an opportunity for these young athletes to establish themselves within the team and demonstrate their potential to the coaching staff.

The New Orleans Saints have taken a strategic approach to fortify their offensive line, selecting Kelvin Banks Jr. as their left tackle. This move enables Taliese Fuaga to return to his natural position at right tackle, enhancing their offensive line stability. Banks boasts a remarkable record with the lowest pressure rate among Power Five tackles, which should provide a solid foundation for the team's future quarterback.

In a surprising twist, the Saints opted for Tyler Shough in the second round as their quarterback, despite his injury history and age, making him the third quarterback to be chosen. His 87.7 PFF passing grade last season indicates potential, though concerns linger due to the decision to bypass other high-profile quarterback prospects during the first round. The Saints also added depth in their backfield with Devin Neal, while Vernon Broughton is set to compete for a role in a crowded defensive line.

The New Orleans Saints have made headlines with their decision to draft Tyler Shough, a quarterback who will turn 26 in September, raising eyebrows about their rookie age. However, the Saints' 2025 draft class isn't as old as some may think, averaging 22.78 years, placing them sixth in the NFL rankings for rookie age.

Among their nine draftees, Shough is the outlier. The roster includes younger talents like first-round pick Kelvin Banks Jr. and running back Devin Neal, both 21 years old, alongside a mix of 22 and 23-year-olds. This strategy reflects a thoughtful balance, as many NFL players hit their peak in their late 20s.

Fans may ponder the importance of age in drafting, especially for a position like quarterback. The unique nature of Shough’s experience might serve him well, but the Saints’ success will hinge on how effectively these players contribute on the field.

The New Orleans Saints had a standout performance in the recent 2025 NFL draft, with five of their nine selections making it into ESPN's top 100 picks, showcasing their strategic drafting prowess. The headliner was OL Kelvin Banks Jr., who ranked as the 13th best pick overall, noted for his potential to solidify the Saints' offensive line. His pairing with Taliese Fuaga offers a dynamic duo that addresses the team's need for an identity up front. In the later rounds, CB Quincy Riley and RB Devin Neal also garnered praise for their potential impact, especially with Riley's ability to step in as a rookie slot cornerback.

Furthermore, QB Tyler Shough, despite being considered a reach at pick 40, brings much-needed experience to the quarterback room, especially with Derek Carr's injury concerns. Lastly, LB Danny Stutsman rounds out the list, recognized as a culture-building leader on defense, which could prove vital for the Saints in the upcoming season. Overall, the buzz around the Saints' draft choices reflects a hopeful outlook as they gear up for the season, with each player contributing to a more robust roster.

Devin Neal made history by becoming the first Kansas football player selected in the 2025 NFL Draft, picked by the New Orleans Saints in the sixth round. During his college career at Kansas, Neal proved his abilities with three seasons eclipsing 1,000 rushing yards, showcasing his versatility in both rushing and receiving. His selection reflects the Saints' confidence in his ability to contribute in a rebuilding phase under new head coach Kellen Moore.

Neal expressed his excitement about joining a talented running backs room that includes Alvin Kamara, believing he can learn and grow by working alongside an established star. His pre-draft interactions with the Saints, especially with associate head coach Joel Thomas, were notable, setting the stage for a fruitful relationship as both seek to enhance the running game in New Orleans.