A huge debate for NFL teams heading into this draft class is positional value vs. talent. This 2026 prospect pool is one we have not quite seen the likes of in a while, with one obvious No. 1 pick, and then a wide cloud of prospects, generally the best of which are at positions that are generally considered to be of lesser value. Caleb Downs, Jeremiyah Love, Sonny Styles, Olaivavega Ioane, all players who could end up in the top 10 to 15 picks that fit the bill.

Downs is a bit of an exception, though, as he is not just your typical free safety; he has the ability to play in the box or a STAR role long-term with some coaching up. He is also certainly in play for the Saints at pick No. 8, and when asked recently what he thought of the idea by Drew Collings for FanSided, he had rave reviews for the team's defensive coordinator: "Yeah, I like Brandon Staley, he's a great guy, I've been talking to him for two years now, I met him at the pro day two years ago, so that would be a good experience."

Noting that they met two years ago is an extremely intriguing piece of information, as it means Staley has kept his eye on Downs for multiple years now and may have an immense interest.

With the team focusing on offense so far in free agency between Travis Etienne and David Edwards, they may turn to defense in round one of the draft this year, finding their long-term replacement for Alontae Taylor in that aforementioned STAR spot, and then moving him to safety eventually when Justin Reid's contract is up.

This article originally appeared on Saints Wire: 2026 NFL Draft: Caleb Downs is a fan of Saints DC Brandon Staley