A new season always brings optimism, but in New Orleans, it also brings competition.
Fresh off a playoff appearance, the Saints front office made it clear this offseason: depth, speed, and defensive identity would remain priorities. The newest rookie class reflects exactly that philosophy — athletic defenders, versatile backs, and physical trench players built to sustain success rather than chase quick fixes.
Here’s a closer look at the newest wave of Saints talent.
Defensive Leaders Arrive Early
Josiah Trotter — SAM Linebacker (79 OVR)
Trotter enters camp as one of the most pro-ready rookies in the class. At 6’2″, 239 lbs with strong awareness and run-stopping traits, he fits perfectly into the Saints’ physical defensive identity. Expect him to compete immediately for rotational snaps and special teams leadership.
He plays downhill, diagnoses quickly, and brings stability to early-down defense.
Jahlil Hurley — Cornerback (79 OVR, Superstar Dev)
The headline rookie.
Hurley arrives with elite man-coverage traits and the development ceiling to become a future CB1. With 90+ speed, acceleration, and change-of-direction ability, he mirrors receivers naturally and thrives in press coverage.
If his development continues, New Orleans may have quietly landed a long-term cornerstone in the secondary.
Vic Burley — Defensive Tackle (73 OVR, Star Dev)
Burley brings raw power to the interior defensive line. His strength rating immediately stands out, and his power-rusher archetype fits perfectly alongside the Saints’ aggressive front.
He may not dominate statistically early, but his presence should collapse pockets and free edge rushers.
Levar Thornton Jr. — Free Safety (74 OVR)
Length and range define Thornton’s game. At 6’3″ with strong agility and coverage movement, he profiles as a developmental deep-zone defender capable of growing into a rotational safety role.
His versatility gives defensive coordinators flexibility in sub-packages.
Backfield Competition Heats Up
The Saints added multiple running backs — not by accident, but by design.
A’Marion Peterson — HB (74 OVR)
A balanced, elusive runner with solid strength, Peterson combines agility with contact balance. He projects as a reliable rotational back capable of handling both outside runs and change-of-pace duties.
Micah Welch — HB (69 OVR)
Perhaps the most explosive athlete in the group. Welch’s 96 acceleration immediately jumps off the page. If he earns touches, he could become a home-run threat capable of flipping field position instantly.
Cam Wallace — HB (67 OVR)
Another speed-based runner, Wallace adds competition and depth. His agility and COD ratings suggest strong potential as a situational weapon or return specialist.
The Saints clearly prioritized speed and versatility in rebuilding their rushing depth chart.
Trench Builders
Mark Nabou Jr. — Center (74 OVR)
At 335 lbs, Nabou provides immediate size and power inside. Strong awareness and elite strength give him developmental starter potential as the Saints continue reinforcing offensive line depth.
Jamaal Jarrett — Defensive Tackle (64 OVR, Star Dev)
A massive presence at 353 lbs, Jarrett profiles as a classic run-plugging interior defender. His star development trait suggests the coaching staff sees long-term upside despite a lower starting rating.
Developmental Talent & Practice Squad Upside
Several rookies arrive as long-term projects with intriguing athletic traits:
- S’Maje Burrell (WILL LB) — coverage-capable linebacker with speed upside
- Zaquan Patterson (FS) — hybrid safety with versatility potential
- Tre’Quon Feagens (CB) — elite speed developmental corner
- Desman Stephensi (MIKE LB) — athletic coverage linebacker prospect
- Blake Purchase (SAM LB) — physical edge-setting linebacker
- Alex January (DT) — powerful interior depth option
- Bryan Jackson (HB) — bigger-bodied back with surprising agility
These players may begin quietly but could become key contributors over multiple seasons.
What This Class Says About the Saints
This rookie class sends a clear message:
- Defense remains the foundation.
- Speed is being injected across every level.
- Competition is no longer optional — it is expected.
After reaching the playoffs, New Orleans is not rebuilding. They are reinforcing.
The veterans established the standard last season. Now, the rookies arrive tasked with raising it.
