Rookie contracts have started rolling in for the New Orleans Saints as they signed six of their nine 2025 draft picks just ahead of rookie minicamp. This group includes their top pick, Kelvin Banks Jr., who secured a fully guaranteed four-year contract worth $27.73 million, highlighted by a $16.8 million signing bonus. Alongside Banks, linebacker Danny Stutsman, cornerback Quincy Riley, running back Devin Neal, tight end Moliki Matavao, and edge rusher Fadil Diggs also inked their deals.

With just three picks remaining to sign, the Saints are navigating a familiar challenge in securing contracts for their second and third rounders: quarterback Tyler Shough, defensive tackle Vernon Broughton, and safety Jonas Sanker. Historically, the second-round negotiations often lead to a prolonged signing process, a trend the Saints bucked last year by signing their second-round selection, Kool-Aid McKinstry, earlier than usual. The Saints aim to finalize these remaining contracts promptly to prevent distractions during the offseason.

The New Orleans Saints unveiled the jersey numbers for their 2025 rookie class, which includes nine draft picks and eleven undrafted free agents. Notable picks include Tyler Shough, assigned number 6 as the quarterback, and Quincy Riley, who will wear number 29 as a cornerback. Other noteworthy assignments are Devin Neal (30) as running back and Jonas Sanker (33) as safety. The team also announced numbers for several undrafted free agents, including Marcus Yarns (34) and Elliott Davison (35) among others. While fans are eager to show support by purchasing jerseys, it’s worth noting that jersey numbers may change leading up to the final roster cuts in September.

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 made a strategic move in the NFL Draft by selecting defensive tackle Vernon Broughton from the Texas Longhorns with their first third-round pick. Broughton, standing at 6'4" and weighing 305 lbs, was a notable choice at 71st overall and the first of four consecutive defensive players drafted by the Saints. Last season, the Saints faced challenges with a defense that ranked 30th overall and 31st against the run, making Broughton's athleticism a key asset to bolster their defensive line.

During his college career, Broughton showed significant improvement. In 2023, he transitioned from a reserve player to a starter, showcasing his potential with 4 sacks and 39 total tackles. His ability to penetrate backfields, combined with good leverage, positions him as a promising interior force. With the Saints' focus on enhancing their run defense, Broughton's familiarity with defensive line coach Bo Davis, who previously coached him at Texas, may provide the necessary development to harness his talent effectively in the NFL.

The New Orleans Saints have made strategic selections for their rookie class, which includes nine draft picks and eleven undrafted free agents. Notably, they sourced talent from various college football conferences to bolster their roster for the upcoming season.

Three schools contributed multiple players: Texas sent offensive lineman Kelvin Banks Jr. and defensive tackle Vernon Broughton; Louisville provided quarterback Tyler Shough and cornerback Quincy Riley; and Virginia brought in safety Jonas Sanker and wide receiver Chris Tyree. Among the 20 rookies, 13 hail from high-profile conferences, including the SEC and ACC, while only two players participated in the previous season's College Football Playoffs.