In the world of NFL diamonds in the rough, the New Orleans Saints might have just found a massive gem—but one that comes with significant baggage. Defensive tackle Zxavian Harris, a powerhouse from Mississippi, was widely projected as a Day 2 or early Day 3 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Yet, nearly a week after the draft concluded, he remained unsigned, eventually landing with the Saints as an undrafted free agent. For a player with his raw talent, that slide was as shocking as it was telling.

So, what caused Harris to tumble out of the draft entirely? Off-field issues, unfortunately, took center stage. Harris has faced multiple legal troubles, including a 2023 arrest for DUI and felony fleeing of a scene, followed by a 2024 arrest for domestic violence and obstruction charges. To make matters worse, he underwent foot surgery shortly after this year's NFL Scouting Combine. These red flags likely scared off teams despite his undeniable on-field potential. For the Saints, the gamble is clear: if Harris can leave his past behind, they may have landed a steal.

Let's break down what Harris brings to the table—and what he needs to work on. At his core, he's a disruptive force in the trenches, but his game comes with question marks: multiple arrests (which likely pushed him out of the draft), foot surgery after the combine, conditioning concerns, and a need to improve footwork, agility, balance, and body control for better leverage. His counter pass-rush moves also require development. In short, the talent is there, but the polish is a work in progress.

Taking a chance on a player with such a troubled past isn't new for New Orleans. In fact, it feels like déjà vu. Back in 2019, Wyoming defensive end Carl Granderson was also viewed as a probable Day 2 pick before legal issues—a six-month jail sentence for sexual battery and unwanted contact—caused him to fall out of the draft entirely. The Saints signed him as an undrafted rookie, and after sitting out part of his first season, Granderson has been trouble-free and become a key part of the Saints' edge rotation. New Orleans is undoubtedly hoping for a similar turnaround with Harris.

For Saints fans, this signing is a classic high-risk, high-reward move. Harris has the physical tools to make an impact, but his success will hinge on his ability to stay on the straight and narrow. If he can channel his focus onto the field, he could be a difference-maker in the trenches. For now, all eyes are on his recovery and his commitment to proving that his best football is still ahead of him.