After breaking down Day 2 offensive targets in our previous piece, we’re turning our attention to the other side of the ball. With the New Orleans Saints continuing to build a young, ascending roster, fans are once again locked in on which defensive prospects could help take the next step. The Saints Block Party community joined in, sharing their favorite Day 2 defensive fits for the New Orlean Saints. The insights below are pulled from our Saints Block Party Patreon community and don’t necessarily reflect the views of Ryan and Adam.
If you want to join our community for a chance to contribute to articles like there, join our Patreon for as little as $3/month.
R Mason Thomas – EDGE, Oklahoma. 6’2″, 247lbs.
R Mason Thomas is an explosive edge rusher with a quick first step and strong pass-rush upside. With the New Orleans Saints needing more explosiveness on defense, he projects as a versatile front-seven piece who can make an early impact getting after the quarterback.
R Mason Thomas is a dynamic Edge Rusher playing out of Oklahoma who could show his versatility as a 4-3 Defensive End, or in a 5 man front as an Outside Linebacker. He makes use of his quick first step as well as his nibble footwork to beat Offensive tackles off the snap. Mason Thomas wins with a decent pass rush repertoire, possessing counter moves to offset initial lost reps. The man out of Oklahoma is stout enough in the run game to be a 3 down player with room to grow. R Mason Thomas is a project 2nd round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
– Yonic Mack
Thomas brings a dynamism and explosiveness to the front 4 the Saints haven’t had in a LONG time. Twitched up to the 9s with excellent balance and ability to bend to rush the QB, he’s a dynamic pass rusher who likely contributes immediately. I think Thomas is an excellent fit for staley’s scheme, and the surrounding talent should help cover for him not being elite vs the run. The Saints have reworked much of their roster, and with last year’s breakout year from young, the team needs a dynamic playmaker opposite him to be able to pressure QBs without needing exotic blitz packages, Thomas is that player.
– Brian Pavek
Zion Young – Edge, Missouri. 6’6″, 262 lbs.
Zion Young is a long, physical edge defender who brings immediate impact as a run-stopper with the upside to grow into a more complete pass rusher. If the New Orleans Saints are looking to get tougher and more consistent on early downs, Young’s size, strength, and motor make him a natural fit who can contribute right away while developing his pass-rush ceiling.
Zion Young is a tenacious, 3 down playmaking edge rusher by way of Michigan State and Missouri. Young is a well built, long edge rusher that has the frame to grow past his already 6’6, 262 combine measurement body. Entering the draft as one of the best run defending edges in the class will have Young playing a key role on early downs as soon as 2026.
Tallying 16.5 TFLs in 2025 at Mizzou showed that he is adept at making big plays in the back field, helping set himself and his team up for advantageous situations on later downs. His pass rush ability is centered around his raw strength, converting speed to power very well. His 2025 tape showed a growing set of pass rush moves, specifically towards setting his defender up outside before winning on the inside shoulder with swim and rip moves. He also plays with a large chip on his shoulder, helping keep himself motivated and productive in every game.
His limitations start as an athlete, where he is not quick/fast enough to threaten tackles off the snap. Combining this with his overall lack of bend shows a very limited athlete that must improve technically to account for this. While his pass rush plan has grown, his hand usage must improve against NFL caliber tackles to unlock him as an edge rushing threat. He also has 2 prior arrests, including a December 2025 DWI arrest that has not seen the legal process all the way through.
Overall, Zion Young will be tasked with growing into his pass rush ability while providing day 1 run stuffing/edge setting ability at the next level. Teams will love his competitive spirit and ability to frustrate opposing OL the day he steps onto the field. If Young is able to grow both physically and technically, he can become a true force in the NFL.
– Cole Zellner
Gabe Jacas – Edge, Illinois. 6’0″, 265 lbs.
Gabe Jacas is a powerful, high-motor edge rusher who wins with strength, leverage, and a deepening pass-rush arsenal. A proven producer with a knack for forcing turnovers, he projects as a Day 2 pick who can immediately impact as a pocket-collapsing defender while developing into a potential three-down force.
Gabe Jacas is a well-built, tenacious edge rusher from the University of Illinois. The 2025 Big Ten sack leader has a motor that never stops running, and it shows by him always being around the football and producing 27 sacks over his 4 year career. On tape he shows immense strength (supported by 30 bench press reps at the NFL combine) to push the pocket and disrupt opposing QBs.
His pass rush arsenal is already strong, and has shown growth year over year with the fighting Illini. He uses his state championship wrestling background to deploy rip moves, win in a variety of ways with both his upper / lower body, and win the leverage battle especially in pass sets. When he gets to the QB, he shows a nose for the football, forcing 6 fumbles over the last 2 seasons. With development still to be done on run downs and with finesse on pass rush sets, he is a good candidate to be a mid day 2 pick, and an immediate contributor as a strong pocket pushing edge rusher. With the correct scheme + coaching, he has the potential to develop into a 3 down force.
2025 Stats: 13.5 TFL, 11 Sacks, 21.2% Pass Rush Win Rate, 3 Forced Fumbles NFL
Comp: Tuli Tuipulotu
– Cole Zellner
Dominique Orange – DT, Iowa State. 6’2″, 325 lbs.
A powerful, long-limbed interior defender, Dominique “Big Citrus” Orange projects as a nose tackle who excels at clogging gaps and anchoring the line. While limited as a pass rusher, his strength and motor make him a valuable early-down run stopper in gap-control schemes.
A long limbed, and explosive presence in the middle of the DL. Projects mostly as NT or a space eating 3T. Has an explosive first step and initial punch which allows him to set the line on run downs and crush the pocket on pass downs. Isn’t a real mover and probably won’t ever be so his pass rush upside is limited, but will immediately anchor the spine of your defense and, if he is willing, open up opportunities for second level defenders and other lineman playing games against his rush.
– Paul Banks
“Big Citrus” is a mass of humanity along the defensive line. His most definitive trait is his ability to attack the A gap, clogging the middle rush lanes, and freeing up the linebackers to make plays. He’s able to explode off the snap using his 34” arms to slide and create gap penetration. He uses a variety of moves to attack offensive linemen, and while he has never been able to produce much pass-rush production, he is capable of getting into the backfield.
Big Dom uses his relentless motor to keep going play after play and held up well against Logan Jones at Iowa, who is one of the better center prospects in this draft. His performance was such that he was extended a Senior Bowl invite, which he accepted, but did not participate. However, part of not being a pass-rusher is the concern over his tackling. His missed tackle rate jumped his senior year while his overall production dipped. He also struggles to get off blocks once latched onto allowing offensive linemen to walk him.
Orange is a scheme-dependent nose tackle/defensive tackle prospect who would be useful as an early-down space eater who can absorb blocks and keep the linebackers clean. A 3-4 defense that values gap control would likely be his best fit.
– Jordan Grove
Zane Durant – DT, PENN State. 6’1″, 290 lbs.
The Saints need some playmakers on the D-Line outside of Chase Young. Zane Durant is an explosive, high-motor defensive tackle whose game is built on disruption rather than mass, pairing a lightning first step with the lateral quickness to knife through gaps and wreck blocking schemes from the inside
He’s one of those defensive tackles who just pops off the screen because he’s constantly moving, constantly chasing, and constantly causing problems for whoever’s trying to block him. At around 6’1″ and 290 pounds, he doesn’t fit the traditional interior profile, but his production and athletic traits at Penn State including double-digit tackles for loss in 2024 show a defender who consistently plays bigger than his frame. He’s not the biggest guy in the world for an interior lineman, but he makes up for it with a crazy quick first step and the kind of energy that makes offensive linemen miserable over four quarters.
At Penn State he turned into a spark plug for their defense always slipping into gaps, blowing up plays before they got started, and playing with a motor that never really shuts off. Durant’s leverage, twitch, and relentless energy make him a natural fit for one-gap, attack oriented fronts where he can stay on the move and avoid being asked to anchor against doubles. He’s not the dude you stick in the middle to eat double teams all day, but if you let him attack and stay on the move, he can be a real headache. While his length and power limitations cap his role as a full-time interior anchor, his upside as a disruptive 3-technique and sub-package penetrator is real, and his growth trajectory suggests he’s still tapping into his ceiling. He feels like the kind of player who might start as a rotational disruptor and end up being one of those guys fans love because he’s always around the ball and always playing like he’s got something to prove.
– Mia White
Kaleb Proctor – DT, Southeastern Louisiana. 6’2″, 291 lbs.
Anybody who is in our Discord, know our guy Tony as the biggest Southeastern fan probably in the world. So it was no surprise that he loves him some Kaleb Proctor. But fandom aside, Proctor is quite the player and can be the next small school gem for a Saints D-Line looking to add talent and depth.
Very quick off the snap; wins early and can beat OGs before they can really get set. His quickness would have him fit well in a movement based scheme. Good hands & pretty deep bag of pass rush moves for an FCS prospect. A bit undersized for a DT. Played at 275-280, but weighed in at 291 at the combine. Will need some time in NFL strength & conditioning before he can be consistently solid vs the run (was good vs run at SLU, but NFL is a big jump from FCS). School homerism aside, I believe Proctor will be able to contribute quickly as a situational pass-rusher and on special teams. Would be a solid 4th/5th round investment.
2025 stats:
– 43 tackles 13 TFLs, 9 sacks. (5 tackles, 3 TFL, 2 sacks vs LSU) 2025
– Southland Conference Player of the Year 1st Team FCS All-American (Stats Perform, the AFCA, FCS Football Central)
– 2nd Team FCS All-American (AP)
Combine results:
– 40-Yard Dash: 4.79
– Vertical Jump: 33″
– Broad Jump – 9’5″
– 20-Yd Shuttle – 4.71
– Tony Mele
Jacob Rodriguez – LB, Texas Tech. 6’1″, 231 lbs.
With how underwhelming Pete Werner has been, the Saints can use some juice at linebacker. Jacob Rodriguez is an instinctive, high-motor linebacker who excels in the box and finds the ball consistently. Though limited athletically, his intelligence and toughness give him solid starting potential.
If this guy is available at 73 but if he is I’m sprinting to the podium. Stellar athlete and high football IQ. It feels like I’m watching Birria Luke Kuechly on film. It’s honestly disrespectful that this kid isn’t rated higher based on his production, honestly. Like, he’s that good in my eyes. Depends on how Staley deploys Elliss in his scheme but I felt like he’d fit extremely well here.
– Chris Bunch
Jacob Rodriguez is the type of linebacker who wins with instincts, effort, and intelligence more than athletic abilities. He shows a strong feel for the game, diagnosing plays quickly and getting to the right spot before blockers can react. Rodriguez production this past season confirmed he is one of the best linebackers in the country.
He is a magnet to the football, collecting tackles, making plays in the backfield (11 TFL) Also, Rodriguez had the ability to make big plays all season. ( 4 interceptions, 7 forced fumbles, and a sack. He is a natural born leader and his ability to process offenses makes him stand out among this year LB group.
Rodriguez athleticism is not on the Sonny Styles or Anthony Hill Jr level. He did struggle at times in man coverage going against more athletic backs and tight ends. Also, he struggles at times disengaging blocks from oline. At times,step late in more complex coverage situations. Rodriguez is reliable in the box and effective in zone. He does not offer pass rushing skills. Only one sack last season. I believe his instincts, toughness, intelligence, and leadership will allow him to be develop a NFL starter in the right defensive system.
– Chris “SBP WAG Analyst” Wilbourne
Josiah Trotter – LB, Missouri. 6’2″, 237 lbs.
Josiah Trotter comes into the NFL draft with elite bloodlines being the son of longtime Philadelphia Eagle, four-time Pro Bowler, and two-time All Pro linebacker Jeremiah Trotter and is the younger brother of Super Bowl winning linebacker Jeremiah Trotter Jr. Trotter enters the draft as a redshirt sophomore who only played two years (one at West Virginia and one at Missouri) but still managed to rack up 176 combined tackles, 79 solo tackles, 17 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, 3 passes defensed, and 1 interception.
Trotter possesses incredible instincts and is quickly able to diagnose run plays possessing the speed and angle pursuit needed to shut down the run. He’s willing to take on blockers, shed, and tackle surely rarely missing. His run defense is excellent possessing a quick first step which helps him on delayed blitzes and zone dogs.
While he is phenomenal as a run stopping leader of the defense, his sideline-to-sideline skills leave a lot to be desired. He struggles to recognize routes and is able to get stacked by athletic tight ends. His mirroring of receivers can look mechanical. Most noticeably against Alabama, he was washed out of plays and was unable to counter their offensive linemen and tight end’s physicality and size.
A younger talent (he turns 21 before the draft), he best fits as a two-down linebacker in an odd-front that can hopefully take to coaching and become better in coverage as his career continues. He has the bloodlines and athleticism but it will take patience. His run defense and blitzing will keep him in the league for years to come.
– Jordan Grove
Anthony Hill Jr. – CB/S, Texas. 6’2″, 238 lbs.
Anthony Hill Jr. is an explosive linebacker whose game is built on speed, range, and playmaking ability. He is what you call the modern-day linebacker.
Hill Jr. greatest strength is attacking downhill and disrupt plays disrupts plays in the backfield. He is a great weak side blitzer and excellent in chasing running backs down from the weak side. Hill Jr. athleticism jumps off the screen. He covers the field effortlessly. He also shown an ability diagnoses plays well and shown the ability to play. multiple linebacker positions. Hill Jr. has made multiple game changing plays in his career.
Hill last season had 70 tackles (38 solo) 4 sacks, 3 forced fumbles, and 2 interceptions in 10 games. He missed the remainder of the season due to a broken hand. Hill Jr. previous season where he was healthy is when he played his best football. Hill had 113 tackles (59 solo) 8 sacks, 4 forced fumbles, and an interception. Hill showcased an ability to convert speed into power and slip blocks in space. Hill Jr. is dangerous when he’s allowed to play freely and attack.
Hill Jr. will need to improve in the physical aspect of the game. He struggled at times taking on blocks. Although he can diagnose plays, there were several snaps where he hesitates or misreads plays, leading to him being out of position. Despite being a capable pass rusher. Hill Jr. struggles in pass coverage, in both man and zone coverage. Also he can be overly aggressive which leads to missing sure tackles and overrunning plays. Hill Jr. athleticism and versatility gives him a high ceiling. With the right coaching and system, Hill Jr. can be a really good NFL starter.
– Chris “SBP WAG Analyst” Wilbourne
Jalon Kilgore – CB/S, South Carolina. 6’1″, 210 lbs.
A big nickel has been an important position in the Saints secondary and with the loss of the mercurial Alontae Taylor a replacement is needing which could be South Carolina defensive back Jalon Kilgore.
A former track athlete and 2-way player in high school, he chose South Carolina over other prestigious schools like Michigan, FSU, and Clemson. Kilgore immediately started as a true freshman taking over for now Seattle Seahawk Nick Emmanwori when he went down in the 2023 opener against North Carolina. He never relinquished the job and in 2025 he was elected as a permanent team captain by his teammates.
Across his Gamecock career he totaled 178 tackles, 8 interceptions, and 21 pass breakups across 36 games. Due to his size, Kilgore is at his best when in run support or covering tight ends or big slot receivers. He can close quickly due to his speed, stops ball-carriers easily with his size, and reacts quickly in the open-field. However, due to his size, he is at his best playing closer to the line as a run-support safety than chasing speedier receivers as a cornerback. He has a tendency to get hung up on blocks and gives up on plays when it goes away from him.
He was a Senior Bowl stand-out and is battle-tested having played in the SEC. With professional development he has ceiling as a plus-starter and his being an SEC captain as a junior while graduating early shows the type of leadership ability and hard work needed to make an immediate impact. He plays an important role for the Saints in a class where few players meet that criteria.
– Jordan Grove
Chris Johnson – CB, SDSU. 6’0″, 193 lbs.
Chris Johnson stands out as a high-value Day 2 prospect because of his elite production and polished coverage technique that consistently shows up on tape.
Johnson has everything teams want in a corner: fluid hips, positional versatility to play both inside and outside, disciplined eyes, and excellent processing speed.
In his final season he allowed an elite 16.1 passer rating with 4 INTs and 9 PBUs, showing he can both shut down receivers and generate turnovers. His ability to read route concepts, mirror receivers through transitions, and thrive in zone coverage makes him a high upside replacement for the Saints who lost Alontae Taylor in Free Agency. When you pair that football IQ with a 4.40 40, elite technique, and positional versatility, you get a corner with both the high floor and athletic ceiling that will catch Brandon Staley and Jeff Ireland’s attention at pick 42 or above.
– Dorian Bourgeois
Davison Igbinosun – CB, Ohio State. 6’2″, 192 lbs.
Ohio State has been a pipeline of talent for the Saints and could again be that this year on Day 2 with cornerback Davison Igbinosun.
The top-rated CB in the state of New Jersey as a 4*, Igbinosun enrolled at Ole Miss in 2022 starting 10 games as a true freshman. He then transferred to Ohio State immediately starting for the Buckeyes and never stopped. In total in his collegiate career, Igbinosun totaled 53 starts with 194 tackles, 27 pass breakups, 4 interceptions, 3 fumble recoveries, and 30 career penalties.
He’s a rangy, lean corner who uses his size to bully receivers at the line, is more than willing in run support, has shown his ability to attack the ball with the amount of PBU and INT’s he tallied in his career and has cleaned up his penalties cutting them down to just 5 in 2025. While he has shown he can play man, his best fit may be in a zone-heavy scheme where his athleticism is maximized as well as his ball skills. He also possesses what you look for when studying tape – it improved year after year with penalties being reduced and impact plays going up. His ceiling can be a CB2 if he cleans up his hand usage but the type of run support he offers along with his range is something that will always be in demand.
– Jordan Grove
Check out our piece on some offensive draft prospects.
Much love to all that contributed to this article. The SBP Community is one of the most special you could find: Diverse, smart, funny, and super knowledgeable. Shout out to Bijon, our trusted Web Developer for organizing this and putting it together!
If you want to become a part of this thriving community where we chop it up in the Discord daily, enjoy each other’s company at meetups, and now be involved in the fabric of SBP content — Join our Patreon now!
– Ryan & Adam