The New Orleans Saints’ 2025 draft class is viewed positively, with multiple players having impactful rookie seasons and a positive future. But just exactly how good was it? It’s time to go back and grade each selection after its first year.
The grades take into account both their performance last year and their projected role heading into 2026. For example, Vernon Broughton missed the entire year with an injury, but he’s expected to have a bounce-back year, so the grading will reflect that.
Having said that, it’s time to get into the grades for the Saints’ 2025 NFL Draft class.
1:9- Kelvin Banks
Adding Kelvin Banks at pick nine wasn’t a flashy move, but it paid dividends for the Saints. He started all 17 games at left tackle and only allowed five sacks. It wasn’t perfect, but Banks proved that he’s the future blindside protector and will form a reliable tandem with Taliese Fuaga for the foreseeable future.
Grade: B+
2:40- Tyler Shough
This pick was widely criticized, but it couldn’t have gone better for the Saints. In his nine starts, Shough led the team to a 5-4 record and changed the outlook of the fanbase from pessimistic to optimistic about the future. It’s too early to say that he’s their franchise quarterback; however, that doesn’t take away from his success.
Grade: A
3:71- Vernon Broughton
Fans haven’t seen much of Vernon Broughton because of his season-ending injury in his first game. As a result, not much can be said about this pick. This makes 2026 a massive season for Broughton as he seeks to establish a role in a crowded Saints’ defensive line. Regardless, it’s too soon to grade this negatively.
Grade: C-
3:93- Jonas Sanker
Jonas Sanker had to step up after starter Julian Blackmon suffered a season-ending injury in week one. Because of this, he had a much larger role than anticipated in his rookie season, in which he thrived. Now, Sanker is set to move to the STAR position and will be arguably the most important player in Brandon Staley’s defense. The future is bright for the young safety.
Grade: A-
4:112- Danny Stutsman
Danny Stutsman’s prowess as a run defender was evident in his rookie season, but issues in pass coverage limited his snaps. However, he’s in line for a breakout season as he replaces veteran Demario Davis. Stutsman will see meaningful minutes this year and will be a major factor in the defense’s success.
Grade: C+
4:131- Quincy Riley
Quincy Riley didn’t have a loud rookie season, but he flew under the radar and was a helpful piece late in the season. The cornerback will have a big opportunity in 2026 as he’s projected to be the starter opposite Kool-Aid McKinstry. If all goes well, this grade could be much higher next year.
Grade: B
6:184- Devin Neal
Devin Neal has been limited by injuries thus far in his career, but he’s arguably the leading candidate to be the third-string running back. He was reliable in relief last season and will be a quality depth piece if he can remain on the field.
Grade: C+
7:248- Moliki Matavao
Moliki Matavao rarely saw the field in his rookie season, mostly playing on the practice squad. The coaching staff obviously believes in him, keeping him on the roster, but it’s hard to see a major role for him with Juwan Johnson, Oscar Delp, and Noah Fant above him on the depth chart.
Grade: D+
7:254- Fadil Diggs
Similar to Matavao, Fadil Diggs played sparingly, only seeing 54 defensive snaps. However, it’s easier to see a role for him in the Saints’ edge rusher unit. He will need a great training camp, but he could see an increase in snaps this season.
Grade: C-
