Every year, the NFL Draft steals the headlines, but for sharp-eyed fans and savvy front offices, the real gems are often found in the undrafted free agent pool. The New Orleans Saints have historically turned overlooked prospects into contributors, and while this year's class isn't as flashy as some teams' hauls of 15 or 20 signings, the dozen or so players they've brought in have plenty to prove as rookie minicamp approaches.
Let's be real: making the 53-man roster as an undrafted rookie is an uphill battle. Last season, only two UDFAs—guard Torricelli Simpkins III and punter Kai Kroeger—survived the final cut. This year's group doesn't feature any locks, but a few bubble players have a genuine shot. Most are long shots, but every training camp has its underdog story. Here's a breakdown of the top contenders and what they need to do to earn their spot.
1. Kyle Herron, Offensive Lineman
Herron tops our list for one simple reason: cold, hard cash. With $272,500 in guaranteed money—more than some draft picks receive—the Saints have already signaled their investment. That kind of commitment almost certainly guarantees him a practice squad spot at minimum. If he performs well over the summer, he could follow in Simpkins' footsteps and claim a backup role on the active roster. But nothing is handed out; he'll have to earn it.
2. Matthew Shipley, Punter
If not for Herron's financial edge, Shipley would be our pick for most likely to make the team. Why? Because it's essentially a two-man race for the punting job. It will be either Shipley or Charlie Smyth handling kicks for New Orleans this fall. The Saints have started a different punter each of the last five seasons, so don't be shocked if Shipley wins the battle at training camp. Smyth showed flashes in his NFL debut, but he didn't do enough to lock down the starting role for 2025.
3. Jake Heldman, Linebacker/Edge
Heldman is the kind of high-upside prospect that gets scouts excited. Coming off a monster 2025 season—16.5 tackles for loss and 10.5 sacks in 13 games—he combines production with elite athleticism that suggests he's only scratched the surface. The question is whether that collegiate success will translate to the pro game. We'll find out when practices heat up later this summer.
For Saints fans, keep an eye on these three names as camp battles unfold. In the world of sports apparel, there's nothing like repping a jersey for the player who defied the odds—and this year's UDFA class might just deliver that story.