**Saints’ Kellen Moore Navigates First NFL Draft as Head Coach, Prioritizing Scheme-Fit Selections**
In his inaugural NFL Draft as head coach of the New Orleans Saints, Kellen Moore strategically targeted players who align with his offensive and defensive philosophies. The Saints utilized their nine draft picks to build a roster tailored to Moore’s vision, emphasizing versatility and scheme compatibility.
The Saints commenced the draft by selecting Texas offensive tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. with the ninth overall pick. Banks, renowned for his athleticism and quickness, is expected to fortify the offensive line and enhance the run game, a cornerstone of Moore’s offensive strategy. Moore, who previously led a run-focused offense to a Super Bowl victory with the Eagles, aims to replicate that success in New Orleans, leveraging Banks’ abilities to protect the quarterback and create running lanes for veteran Alvin Kamara ([Canal Street Chronicles][1]).
In the second round, the Saints selected quarterback Tyler Shough from Louisville. Despite some debate over the pick, Moore and the coaching staff were impressed by Shough’s traits and potential fit within the new offensive scheme ([Canal Street Chronicles][2]).
The third round saw the addition of Texas defensive tackle Vernon Broughton and Virginia safety Jonas Sanker. While Broughton’s selection raised questions due to positional priorities, Sanker’s versatility and potential immediate contribution to defense and special teams were praised .([New Orleans Saints][3], [Canal Street Chronicles][2])
On Day 3, the Saints continued to add depth and versatility. Oklahoma linebacker Danny Stutsman and Louisville cornerback Quincy Riley were selected in the fourth round, with Riley considered a steal. Kansas running back Devin Neal, picked in the sixth round, was highlighted as a valuable addition to complement Kamara. Seventh-round picks included UCLA tight end Moliki Matavao and Syracuse edge rusher Fadil Diggs, both seen as high-potential value picks .([Canal Street Chronicles][2], [New Orleans Saints][4])
General Manager Mickey Loomis expressed confidence in the draft class, stating, “I think there’s a lot of guys that have the opportunity to be starting contributors for us and good players for hopefully a long time” .([New Orleans Saints][4])
Moore’s first draft as head coach reflects a deliberate approach to building a team that embodies his strategic vision. By focusing on players who fit his schemes and possess the versatility to adapt, Moore aims to revitalize the Saints and steer them back into playoff contention.
[1]: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/2025/4/29/24419708/how-kelvin-banks-jr-immediately-impacts-the-saints-offense?utm_source=chatgpt.com “How Kelvin Banks Jr immediately impacts the Saints offense”
[2]: https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/2025/4/30/24418782/yaccarinos-saints-2025-draft-grades?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Yaccarino’s Saints 2025 draft grades”
[3]: https://www.neworleanssaints.com/video/saints-2025-nfl-draft-round-1-recap-kellen-moore-kelvin-banks-jr?utm_source=chatgpt.com “2025 NFL Draft: Kellen Moore recaps Saints Draft – Day 1”
[4]: https://www.neworleanssaints.com/news/new-orleans-saints-add-versatile-producers-in-first-draft-under-coach-kellen-moore?utm_source=chatgpt.com “New Orleans Saints add versatile producers in first draft under …”
