2026 NFL Draft Shocks: Saints Steal Gem, Sanders Stumbles

The New Orleans Saints turned heads in the 2026 NFL Draft by selecting quarterback Byrce Lance in the fourth round, a move dubbed 'highway robbery' by draft watchers for its value. Lance, projected as a mid-round steal, bolsters a Saints offense seeking stability post-Drew Brees era. FOX Sports highlights praised the pick as a franchise-altering coup amid team preparations for the upcoming season.[2] Early mock drafts showcased receiver-rich hauls, with the Philadelphia Eagles grabbing USC's Makai Lemon at No. 16, adding speed to their aerial attack. The New York Jets followed suit, selecting Oregon's Kenyon Sadiq at the same spot in simulations, pairing him with existing weapons. The Tennessee Titans eyed offense first, taking WR Carnell Tate fourth overall to fuel their rebuild.[1] Shedeur Sanders faced a harsh spotlight as FOX Sports' Nick analyzed his loss to Deshaun Watson in a high-profile matchup, questioning his draft stock. Sanders, Colorado's star quarterback, struggled against Watson's veteran poise, fueling debates on his NFL readiness ahead of the real draft.[1] Texas Tech QB Brendan Sorsby emerged in controversy, with NFL Insider Tom Pelissero discussing his potential entry into the league's supplemental draft following a sports gambling scandal. The scandal, details still unfolding as of May 2026, could derail his pro dreams or offer a redemption path. Pelissero pegged odds low but noted teams' interest in his arm talent.[9] FOX Sports' NFL player news hub tracks these movements, from injuries to fantasy impacts, as teams finalize rosters before training camps. With the draft wrapping key preparations, expect ripple effects: Saints' QB depth challenges veterans, while receiver grabs signal pass-heavy schemes league-wide.[3][4] As the 2026 season looms, these developments set the stage for upheaval. FOX Sports continues monitoring trades and cuts, with player news driving fantasy and betting markets into overdrive.[5]