The New Orleans Saints are gearing up for their 2026 rookie minicamp, set to take place on May 8 and 9 in Metairie. With the NFL Draft and undrafted free agent signings already in the rearview mirror, it's time for the next wave of hopefuls to showcase their skills. This minicamp isn't just for the eight-man draft class and the ten undrafted free agents already signed—it's also a golden opportunity for a select group of tryout players to earn a spot on the roster.
Among the invites are two quarterbacks, a punter, and over a dozen other prospects, blending small-school standouts, developmental talents, and even a veteran looking to make a comeback. It's a classic Saints approach: leave no stone unturned in the search for hidden gems.
Here's a breakdown of the known tryout players heading to New Orleans:
Quarterbacks: Braylon Braxton (Southern Mississippi) and another signal-caller will get a chance to show their arm strength and poise under pressure. Braxton, a dual-threat prospect, could be an intriguing project for the coaching staff.
Punter: A specialist looking to compete for a role—always a critical piece for field position battles.
Linebackers and Defensive Help: Johnny Chaney Jr. (Florida International) leads a group of defenders eager to prove their worth. Chaney brings physicality and instincts to the linebacker corps, a position where the Saints often seek depth.
Other tryout players include a mix of offensive linemen, wide receivers, and defensive backs—all hoping to catch the eye of the front office. With the 90-man roster still taking shape, don't be surprised if one or two of these underdogs earn a contract. After all, minicamp tryouts have a history of producing NFL success stories.
For Saints fans, this is a chance to see the future in action—whether it's a future star or a key depth piece. Stay tuned for updates as the minicamp unfolds.
