New Orleans Saints 2026 NFL Draft: Complete Viewing Guide, Schedule, and Pick Projections

POLICY WIRE — Pittsburgh, United States — The highly anticipated 2026 NFL Draft is set to begin, marking a pivotal three-day period that often reshapes the landscape of professional football franchises.

With 257 selections across seven rounds, this event serves as a critical juncture, bridging the gap between the end of the previous season and the commencement of summer mini-camps. Annually, team fortunes fluctuate significantly based on the influx of new talent, as rookies are brought in to fill vacancies left by retiring players and strengthen rosters.

Expect a dynamic weekend filled with player selections, strategic trades, and surprising developments. For fans of the New Orleans Saints, this year promises particular excitement, as the team holds eight valuable draft picks, poised to bolster their promising young core.

Key Dates and Times for the 2026 NFL Draft

The prestigious 2026 NFL Draft officially kicks off in Pittsburgh, spanning from April 23 to April 25. Football enthusiasts should mark their calendars for these essential viewing times:

• Round 1: Thursday, April 23, commencing at 8:00 P.M. ET / 7:00 P.M. CT.
• Rounds 2-3: Friday, April 24, beginning at 7:00 P.M. ET / 6:00 P.M. CT.
• Rounds 4-7: Saturday, April 25, starting at 12:00 P.M. ET / 11:00 A.M. CT.

New Orleans Saints Draft Order and Estimated Pick Times

The New Orleans Saints are well-positioned with a significant number of selections in the 2026 NFL Draft. Their current draft capital includes:

• Round 1: Pick 8
• Round 2: Pick 42
• Round 3: Pick 73
• Round 4: Pick 132 (acquired from the Seattle Seahawks)
• Round 4: Pick 136 (compensatory selection)
• Round 5: Pick 150
• Round 5: Pick 172 (acquired from the Seattle Seahawks)
• Round 6: Pick 190

Predicting exact pick times can be challenging due to potential trades and varying team decisions. However, for the Saints’ Round 1, Pick 8, an approximate selection time is projected around 8:56 P.M. ET / 7:56 P.M. CT. Fans should anticipate this pick to occur within a 10 to 15-minute window surrounding this central estimate.

Read More: 2026 NFL Draft: Shorter Pick Time Limits Implemented for Faster Selections

How to Watch the 2026 NFL Draft Live

A variety of viewing options are available for fans to follow all the action of the 2026 NFL Draft. Whether you prefer traditional television broadcasts or digital streaming, comprehensive coverage is ensured.

Television Broadcasts

Linear television channels providing live coverage include NFL Network, ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPN Deportes. These networks will offer expert analysis, breaking news, and real-time updates throughout all three days of the event.

Streaming Options

For those who have moved beyond traditional cable services, numerous streaming platforms will carry the draft. NFL+, the league’s dedicated streaming service, is a prime option for comprehensive coverage. Additionally, ESPN Unlimited and ESPN Select provide further streaming access through ESPN’s digital ecosystem.

Cable alternative platforms like Fubo also offer access to the draft broadcasts, often including free trial periods for new subscribers. This ensures that no fan misses out on the critical selections and unfolding narratives of the draft weekend.

The 2026 NFL Draft remains a highlight for general managers and fans alike, shaping the future of teams for years to come. For more insights into potential team strategies and player evaluations, consider reviewing various 2026 NFL Mock Drafts.