The Saints are planning historical step in the NFL draft 2026 to secure Clemsons Cade Klubnik as a quarterback in the first round since 1971
The New Orleans Saints seem to rethink their quarterback strategy with regard to the NFL draft 2026. After years of searching for a franchise quarters back, the team could be ready to make a historical selection that could mark their first quarterback pick in the first round since the legendary Archie Manning in 1971.
Transition from Derek Carr era
With Derek’s Carr resignation, the Saints navigate through an unsafe quarterback landscape. The squad currently includes the Rookies Tyler Shough and Spencer Rattler, but none of them have emerged as a definitive long -term solution. While the clock ticks to the draft, the Saints seem to be ready to take a significant step to secure their future in the quarterback position.
In his early mock draft for 2026, ESPN analyst Field Yates suggested that the Saints may trade up to acquire a top quarterback brochure. He speculated that the team could jump over the fifth overall on the third place by completing a deal with the Tennessee Titans. Yates noticed: “New Orleans could watch how two QBs go off the board in the first round and would like to get into the party. A trade from fifth to third place with Tennessee-the team has his QB in Cam, but needs a lot around him-would make sense, while New Orleans is looking for a long-term option at the quarterback position.”
Cade Klubnik: A potential game channel
At the top of the potential draft strategy of the Saints is Clemsons Cade Klubnik, a quarterback that has attracted considerable attention close to the 2026 draft. Should the Saints Clubnik select, he would be the first quarterback that was taken from the franchise since Manning in the first round, a step that would resonate deeply with the history of the team.
Yates emphasized that Klubnik has an impressive spectrum of skills and described him as “mechanically solid and an exact passer.” During his outstanding season 2024, he achieved remarkable 43 touchdowns in total, dividing them into 36 passes and seven runs. His performance in crucial moments, especially against formidable defensive rows, has further consolidated his status as a top perspective.
An outstanding performance against Texas
Klubnik’s climb to the top of the draft boards was significantly strengthened by its playoff performance against Texas, a game that showed his ability to thrive under pressure. He “dismantled the best secondary in America in the greatest game of the season”, as an analyst put it, and thus consolidated its status as a quarterback that should be kept in mind.
While the Saints are preparing for the draft, the opportunity to trade up to secure Cade Klubnik could set a new course for the franchise. With the weight of the story behind you, the decision could redefine the future of the team in the quarterback position and reflect the legacy of one of their greatest players.
