New Orleans Saints lock in 2025 draft picks with four-year deals, led by Kelvin Banks Jr.
The New Orleans Saints have kicked off their 2025 season preparations with a flurry of activity, securing contracts for six of their nine draft picks from the 2025 NFL Draft. Leading the charge is first-round offensive tackle Kelvin Banks Jr., whose four-year, $27.73 million fully guaranteed deal marks a significant investment in the team’s offensive line. The signings, announced just before the rookie minicamp, signal the Saints’ intent to build a robust foundation for the upcoming season. With a new head coach in Kellen Moore and a revamped roster, the franchise is poised for a transformative year.
This wave of contracts includes not only Banks but also linebacker Danny Stutsman, cornerback Quincy Riley, running back Devin Neal, tight end Moliki Matavao, and defensive end Fadil Diggs. Each player brings unique skills to the table, addressing critical needs across the roster. The Saints’ proactive approach to locking in their draft class underscores their commitment to developing young talent. As rookie minicamp unfolds, these players will get their first taste of NFL action, setting the stage for a competitive training camp.
- Key signings: Six of nine draft picks, including first-rounder Kelvin Banks Jr.
- Contract details: Four-year deals, with Banks’ deal fully guaranteed at $27.73 million.
- Rookie minicamp: Scheduled for May 8-10, offering a first look at the new talent.
- Strategic focus: Strengthening the offensive line and adding defensive depth.
The Saints’ draft strategy has sparked discussions among fans and analysts, with the team balancing immediate needs and long-term potential. The addition of these rookies, combined with veteran roster moves, positions New Orleans to address past shortcomings, particularly in the trenches. As the team transitions into a new era under Moore’s leadership, the spotlight is on how these young players will integrate into a franchise hungry for playoff contention.
First-round focus on Kelvin Banks Jr.
Kelvin Banks Jr., selected ninth overall, represents a cornerstone of the Saints’ 2025 draft class. The Texas Longhorns offensive tackle, known for his exceptional pass protection, signed a four-year contract worth $27.73 million, including a $16.8 million signing bonus. His deal also includes a fifth-year option, giving the Saints flexibility to retain him through 2029. Banks’ collegiate career was marked by durability and dominance, starting all 42 games at left tackle and allowing the lowest pressure rate (2.1%) among Power Four left tackles over the past two seasons.
The decision to draft Banks was not without controversy. Some analysts, including ESPN’s Mel Kiper, argued the Saints should have targeted a quarterback like Shedeur Sanders with the ninth pick. However, the team’s front office prioritized bolstering the offensive line, a critical area of need after years of inconsistency. Banks’ versatility allows him to play either left tackle or left guard, providing options to reshape the line alongside 2024 first-round pick Taliese Fuaga.
- Collegiate accolades: First-team All-Big 12 in 2023 and 2024.
- Pass protection: Allowed only 2.1% pressure rate on over 1,000 pass-blocking snaps.
- Positional flexibility: Capable of playing left tackle or guard.
Banks’ selection reflects a broader strategy to protect the quarterback, whether it’s veteran Derek Carr or a rookie like Tyler Shough. His immediate goal is to start all 17 games in 2025, either at left tackle or by pushing Fuaga back to right tackle, his college position. The Saints’ investment in Banks signals confidence in his ability to anchor the line for years to come.
Second-round surprise with Tyler Shough
The Saints raised eyebrows in the second round by selecting Louisville quarterback Tyler Shough at the 40th overall pick. Shough, a seven-year college veteran, brings pro-ready skills but also injury concerns that have tempered expectations. His selection was driven by uncertainty surrounding Derek Carr, who announced his retirement on May 10, 2025, due to a degenerative rotator cuff injury. Shough now competes with 2024 fifth-round pick Spencer Rattler and 2023 fourth-round pick Jake Haener for the starting role.
Shough’s college career spanned Texas Tech, Oregon, and Louisville, where he showcased a strong arm and mobility. However, injuries limited his playing time, raising questions about his durability in the NFL. General manager Mickey Loomis emphasized a competitive quarterback room, noting Shough’s potential to start as early as Week 1. Analysts view him as a dark horse for Offensive Rookie of the Year, citing his fit in Kellen Moore’s revamped offensive scheme.
The decision to draft Shough over more heralded quarterbacks like Cam Ward or Jaxson Dart sparked debate. Some executives praised the Saints’ patience in waiting until the second round, while others questioned whether Shough’s injury history makes him a risky pick. His jersey number, No. 6, previously worn by fan-favorite punter Thomas Morstead, adds a layer of symbolism to his arrival in New Orleans.
Defensive depth with Vernon Broughton and Jonas Sanker
The Saints didn’t stop at offense, using their third-round picks to bolster the defense. Texas defensive tackle Vernon Broughton, selected 71st overall, brings size and versatility to a unit looking to rebound from a lackluster 2024. Broughton, who will wear No. 91, played both defensive tackle and end in college, offering flexibility in defensive coordinator Brandon Staley’s scheme. His role will be to clog running lanes and generate interior pressure, addressing a weakness exposed last season.
Virginia safety Jonas Sanker, picked 93rd overall, adds athleticism to the secondary. Wearing No. 18, Sanker’s range and tackling ability make him a potential steal. His college tape showed a knack for creating turnovers, leading the ACC in interceptions in 2024. The Saints expect Sanker to compete for a rotational role, with an eye toward starting opposite Tyrann Mathieu in 2026.
- Broughton’s profile: 6-foot-4, 305 pounds, with 34-inch arms for disrupting linemen.
- Sanker’s strengths: Led ACC with 5 interceptions in 2024; 4.4-second 40-yard dash.
- Defensive needs: Saints ranked 24th in run defense in 2024, allowing 4.8 yards per carry.
- Staley’s influence: New coordinator emphasizes versatile, aggressive defenders.
Both players align with Staley’s vision of a faster, more physical defense. Their early contributions will be critical as the Saints face a tough NFC South schedule, including matchups against the Atlanta Falcons and Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Linebacker Danny Stutsman joins the fray
In the fourth round, the Saints selected Oklahoma linebacker Danny Stutsman at pick 112. Stutsman, who will wear No. 47, brings intensity and instincts to a linebacker corps that struggled with consistency last season. His college career was defined by relentless pursuit, amassing 125 tackles and 3 sacks in 2024. Stutsman’s ability to diagnose plays and cover tight ends makes him a three-down linebacker prospect.
Stutsman’s path to the roster is not guaranteed, as he’ll compete with veterans like Demario Davis and Pete Werner. However, his high motor and leadership qualities have drawn comparisons to Davis, a Saints stalwart. The team expects Stutsman to contribute on special teams while developing into a starter by 2026. His signing to a four-year deal reflects confidence in his long-term potential.
The linebacker’s college number, 28, was unavailable due to cornerback Tre Herndon, prompting the switch to 47. Fans have already embraced Stutsman’s blue-collar mentality, with social media buzzing about his highlight-reel hits. His presence adds depth to a defense aiming to climb from its 22nd overall ranking in 2024.
Quincy Riley strengthens the secondary
Louisville cornerback Quincy Riley, selected 131st overall in the fourth 4th round, adds speed and ball skills to the Saints’ secondary. Riley, who ran a 4.38-second 40-yard dash at the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine, signed a four-year deal and will wear No. 23. His college career at Louisville included 8 interceptions and 20 pass breakups, showcasing his ability to disrupt passing games.
Riley faces stiff competition from veterans like Marshon Lattimore and Paulson Adebo, but his speed and instincts could earn him a nickel role. Defensive backs coach Marcus Robertson has praised Riley’s work ethic, noting his ability to mirror receivers in man coverage. The Saints’ secondary, which allowed 7.2 yards per attempt in 2024, needs young talent like Riley to step up.
- Coverage stats: Allowed a 52.3% completion rate when targeted in 2024.
- Versatility: Capable of playing outside or in the slot.
- Combine performance: Top-10 among cornerbacks in vertical jump (38 inches).
Riley’s signing comes as the Saints aim to counter the pass-heavy offenses of rivals like the Falcons and Panthers. His development will be a storyline to watch during training camp.
Running back Devin Neal adds speed
Kansas running back Devin Neal, selected 184th overall in the sixth round, brings explosiveness to the Saints’ backfield. Neal, who signed a four-year deal, will wear No. 26. His college career included 4,193 rushing yards and 41 touchdowns, with a 5.9-yard average per carry. Neal’s burst and vision make him a potential complement to Alvin Kamara, who remains the team’s lead back.
The Saints’ running game struggled in 2024, ranking 19th with 4.3 yards per carry. Neal’s goal is to carve out a role ahead of backups like Kendre Miller and Clyde Edwards-Helaire. His special teams ability, including kickoff returns, could secure his roster spot. Announced by UFC fighter Dustin Poirier at the draft, Neal’s selection resonated with Louisiana fans.
Tight end Moliki Matavao’s raw potential
Hawai’i tight end Moliki Matavao, picked 191st overall in the sixth round, is a developmental prospect with intriguing tools. Standing 6-foot-6 and 245 pounds, Matavao signed a four-year deal and will wear No. 88. His college production was modest (622 yards, 5 touchdowns), but his size and athleticism caught the Saints’ eye. Matavao’s blocking skills align with Kellen Moore’s emphasis on a balanced offense.
Matavao must outperform veteran Jack Stoll to earn a roster spot, as the Saints typically carry three tight ends. His raw receiving skills could make him a red-zone target, though analysts suggest he may start on the practice squad. Coaches have praised his work ethic, noting his willingness to learn from veteran Juwan Johnson.
Fadil Diggs rounds out the class
Syracuse defensive end Fadil Diggs, selected 254th overall in the seventh round, adds depth to the pass rush. Diggs, who signed a four-year deal, will wear No. 95. His college career included 11 sacks and 22 tackles for loss, showcasing his ability to disrupt backfields. At 6-foot-5 and 260 pounds, Diggs fits Staley’s mold for versatile edge rushers.
Diggs faces an uphill battle to make the roster, with veterans like Carl Granderson and Chase Young ahead of him. His motor and length, however, could earn him a rotational role. The Saints’ pass rush, which recorded 41 sacks in 2024, needs young contributors like Diggs to maintain pressure on quarterbacks.
- Sack production: 6.5 sacks in 2024, tied for team lead at Syracuse.
- Physical traits: 34.5-inch arms, ideal for batting passes.
- Roster competition: Must outperform Isaiah Foskey and Payton Turner.
Diggs’ late-round selection reflects the Saints’ strategy of taking high-upside players in the draft’s final stages. His progress during minicamp will determine his immediate role.
Jersey numbers assigned to rookies
The Saints revealed jersey numbers for their 2025 draft class, adding a layer of excitement for fans. Kelvin Banks Jr. will wear No. 71, previously donned by right tackle Ryan Ramczyk, while Tyler Shough takes No. 6, with permission from former punter Thomas Morstead. These numbers carry symbolic weight, connecting the rookies to the franchise’s history.
- Vernon Broughton: No. 91, last worn by Kendal Vickers.
- Jonas Sanker: No. 18, a fresh number for the safety.
- Danny Stutsman: No. 47, bypassing his college No. 28 due to Tre Herndon.
- Quincy Riley: No. 23, fitting his dynamic play style.
- Devin Neal: No. 26, a nod to his speed.
- Moliki Matavao: No. 88, emphasizing his size.
- Fadil Diggs: No. 95, a traditional defensive end number.
These assignments, while subject to change, give fans a visual identity for the rookies as they hit the field. Social media posts from the Saints’ official account highlighted the numbers, generating buzz ahead of minicamp.
Rookie minicamp kicks off
The Saints’ rookie minicamp, held May 8-10 at the Ochsner Sports Performance Center, marks the first opportunity for the 2025 draft class to showcase their skills. Alongside the nine draft picks, 11 undrafted free agents and tryout players will compete, creating a high-energy environment. Coaches, including Kellen Moore and Brandon Staley, will evaluate fundamentals, teamwork, and adaptability.
Banks, Shough, and others are expected to take significant reps, with the staff monitoring their integration into NFL schemes. The minicamp also serves as a proving ground for late-round picks like Diggs and Matavao, who need strong showings to secure roster spots. Fan access is limited, but the Saints’ social media team will provide updates, fueling anticipation for training camp.
Veteran roster moves shape depth chart
Beyond the draft, the Saints made notable veteran additions to complement their rookies. Former Chargers linebacker Chris Rumph II followed defensive coordinator Brandon Staley to New Orleans, signing a one-year deal. Rumph, a 2021 fourth-round pick, brings familiarity with Staley’s system and will compete for a rotational role.
The retirement of Derek Carr, announced on May 10, 2025, reshapes the quarterback room, elevating Shough’s importance. Meanwhile, the team continues to explore wide receiver options after bypassing the position in the draft. Names like Allen Robinson have surfaced as potential free-agent targets to address the need for a red-zone threat. These moves reflect a roster in transition, blending youth and experience.
