Saints Intensify 2026 NFL Draft Prep with Private Workout for Ole Miss WR De’Zhaun Stribling
POLICY WIRE — New Orleans, USA — Following the trade deadline departure of wide receiver Rashid Shaheed to the Seattle Seahawks, a noticeable void emerged in the New Orleans Saints’ deep threat...
POLICY WIRE — New Orleans, USA — Following the trade deadline departure of wide receiver Rashid Shaheed to the Seattle Seahawks, a noticeable void emerged in the New Orleans Saints’ deep threat capabilities.
As the franchise prepares for the highly anticipated 2026 NFL Draft, which is expected to feature a robust class of wide receiver talent, the Saints are actively seeking opportunities to strengthen their aerial attack.
Assessing the Saints’ Wide Receiver Needs
While much of the early attention for New Orleans’ No. 8 overall pick may center on prominent first-round prospects like Ohio State’s Carnell Tate or Arizona State’s Jordyn Tyson, the upcoming draft offers a wealth of potential in its middle rounds.
The strategic approach will involve exploring various talent pools to identify players who can make an immediate impact and provide long-term value to the roster.
De’Zhaun Stribling: A Rising NFL Draft Prospect
Among the collegiate athletes generating significant buzz leading up to the draft is Ole Miss wide receiver De’Zhaun Stribling. This 6-foot-2, 23-year-old prospect impressed scouts with an exceptional 4.36-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Scouting Combine, showcasing elite speed for his size.
Saints’ Strategic Interest and Draft Scenarios
The New Orleans Saints recently conducted a private workout with Stribling, as confirmed by a report from ESPN’s Adam Schefter. This engagement highlights the team’s serious evaluation of the versatile receiver.
Stribling’s impressive athleticism and collegiate production have garnered widespread interest across the league. He completed a total of eight pre-draft visits, including sessions with the Philadelphia Eagles, Chicago Bears, and New England Patriots.
The Dallas Cowboys also hosted the Hawaii native for a private workout, indicating a strong multi-team pursuit of his talents.
During his 2024 and 2025 seasons, Stribling achieved back-to-back campaigns exceeding 800 receiving yards. In his sole year at Ole Miss, after transferring from Oklahoma State, he maintained an average of 14.75 yards per catch and recorded only one dropped pass.
Read More: 2026 NFL Mock Draft: First Round Predictions, Strategic Trades, and Key Player Selections
Initially recognized as a three-star recruit, Stribling’s unique combination of height and speed has significantly elevated his draft stock. He is now projected to be a likely Day 2 selection, with strong consideration for the second round.
For the Saints, a scenario exists where they could target Stribling with their No. 73 pick in the third round, should they prioritize other positions in the earlier rounds. Alternatively, an impressive showing in his private workout might compel the front office to trade back into the latter half of the second round to secure the receiver, potentially envisioning him as a complementary piece alongside quarterback Tyler Shough and the rest of the offense.
