The way the season is going for the Saints, all things are possible for this roster at this moment. So, when you’re watching college football games this weekend, here are a few players to watch, regardless of their position.
Carter Smith is an offensive tackle who plays at Indiana, and with the way the offensive line has performed, it wouldn’t be a surprise if that’s where the Saints choose to make another investment. Smith is one of the best, and he will be taking on a really good edge rusher in Kenyatta
Jackson, who plays for Ohio State. That game will be at 11 a.m. on Fox. Smith is currently ranked as the fifth-best offensive tackle on Mel Kiper’s Big Board. Smith has played against Jackson before, including in the 2025 Big Ten Championship Game, which the Hoosiers won 13-10.
The Saints obviously need to have a true number-one corner, and Kelley Jones could be him. Jones plays for Mississippi State, and the Bulldogs will be playing the Tigers in Baton Rouge at 11 a.m. on ESPN. So far this season, Jones has allowed a completion percentage of only 28%. He is a true outside corner with size and range and is a consensus first-round selection. Jones will be tested by the LSU offense. The Tigers feature several talented receivers and one of the best passing offenses in the nation. If Jones can hold his own, he could help the defense take away one side of the field and make containing the LSU offense more manageable.
Another edge rusher who is not getting a lot of headlines but is currently viewed as a first-rounder is Yhonzae Pierre. Pierre is currently ranked as the third-best edge rusher in the 2027 class. So far this season, Pierre has 2.5 sacks, 17 tackles, one interception, and a forced fumble. The Tide will be taking on the Volunteers at 2:30 p.m. on ABC. Pierre is going to be tested by the Volunteers, but not just in the passing game. Tennessee will be featuring DeSean Bishop, who is having an amazing season, especially with the uncertainty at the QB position. Bishop just ran for 138 yards on 19 carries against Arkansas, and the week prior, he ran for over 200 yards. If Pierre can hold his own against the run and play a complete game on the edge, it could get ugly in Knoxville for the Volunteers.
What position group would you like to see the Saints address? What players are you watching this weekend? Share your thoughts in the comments.
