The New Orleans Saints are entering a very exciting offseason. While they might be tens of millions over the cap, the Saints have a few easy ways to clear space and add talent.
But, unlike in years past, this offseason won't be focused on finding a quarterback. Tyler Shough looks to be a star, and the Saints are going to build around him. The offensive line is mostly set, but adding a wide receiver or even a running back could be on the table.
NFL.com's Daniel Jeremiah shared his first mock draft of the offseason, and in it, he predicted that the Saints would take one of the 2026 NFL Draft class's best playmakers in a Notre Dame running back, as a replacement for Alvin Kamara.
Saints predicted to draft Alvin Kamara's replacement with Notre Dame RB
Jeremiah predicts that the Saints will take Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love with the 9th pick in the draft. "I love - no pun intended - the idea of pairing Tyler Shough with the most electric playmaker in the draft," Jeremiah writes.
Jeremiah's prediction for Jeremiyah is a very fun one for the Saints. Adding Love to the offense to pair with Chris Olave and Shough could make for a core that's around for a long time in New Orleans.
Kamara losing his role wouldn't be a major surprise, as this past season wasn't his best. He's 30 years old and coming off his worst year in the NFL.
More: Mel Kiper Jr. Predicts Saints to draft red-zone threat WR top-10 to pair with Chris Olave
He had just 471 rushing yards, one touchdown, and 186 receiving yards in 11 games this season. Finding his replacement should be a priority, especially since he's set to be a free agent after the 2026 season.
Love, a dynamic play-making running back, would be a luxury pick for the Saints. But, with a solid defense, a good offensive line, and a pair of solid wide receivers, they can spend a bit on a running back.
It's a risk, but just as the Atlanta Falcons spent a top-10 pick on Bijan Robinson, taking Love wouldn't be the worst option at 9th overall. He's not a generation prospect, but his high-upside makes him one of the best prospects in the class.
He's a fun prediction from Jeremiah, and could be an easy long-term replacement for Kamara in the Saints offense going forward.
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