Four New Orleans Saints Players Who Could Be on the Move During the 2026 NFL Draft

The 2026 NFL Draft is set to be a busy weekend for most franchises, but for the New Orleans Saints, it may be about more than just selecting new talent. After significant moves in free agency and ongoing salary cap management, the Saints could be active as sellers. Four players in particular could be on the move.

Cesar Ruiz has been at the center of trade discussions before. The Saints explored deals for the offensive lineman at last year's deadline but couldn't find a team willing to meet their asking price. The lack of a new contract restructuring this offseason is telling, keeping his cap hits at roughly $14.1 million for both 2026 and 2027. While trading him before June 1 would cost more in dead money than the draft compensation another team might offer, moving his contract entirely and finding a better scheme fit at guard could make sense. The Saints have invested heavily in guard prospects and may look to draft one to develop behind him.

At linebacker, Pete Werner's future in New Orleans appears uncertain. The signing of Kaden Elliss to eventually replace Demario Davis suggests the Saints are planning for life beyond Werner in the middle of their defense. Rookie Danny Stutsman split reps with Werner last season and seems primed for a larger role in Year 2. If the long-term plan is for Elliss and Stutsman to handle the bulk of the snaps, Werner could be available.

Davon Godchaux was the first acquisition of the Kellen Moore era but didn't quite live up to expectations. A restructure left more than $2.5 million in dead money if he's traded, but moving him would free up $4.5 million against the cap. With Bryan Bresee's fifth-year option picked up and John Ridgeway III signed to a two-year extension, the Saints have young options on the interior defensive line. Godchaux turns 32 later this year and his contract voids next offseason, making him a logical cut or trade candidate.

Jordan Howden enters the final year of his deal without having secured a starting role. His 23.7% defensive snap share last season was the lowest of his career, and his $3.7 million cap hit is a career-high. Yet trading him would leave just $81,682 on the books, making him an attractive bargain for a team in need of safety help. The Chicago Bears, with an open spot next to Coby Bryant and a reunion with defensive coordinator Dennis Allen, who originally drafted Howden, could be a fit.

Whether any of these moves happen remains to be seen, but the Saints have positioned themselves to be active participants in trade discussions this draft weekend.