In Week 3 of the college football season, the New Orleans Saints sent scouts to observe talent in two key games, aiming to identify promising prospects for their future roster. This initiative highlights the team's ongoing commitment to strengthening its lineup through careful player evaluation. The observed games, which included matchups between Texas Tech and Houston, and Miami and Wake Forest, featured several collegiate stars who may soon find themselves on the professional stage. The Saints' proactive scouting efforts underscore their strategic planning for upcoming NFL drafts, ensuring they remain competitive by securing top-tier collegiate athletes.
One of the games under scrutiny was the contest between No. 22 Houston and No. 13 Texas Tech. This game proved to be a nail-biter, with Texas Tech ultimately securing a narrow 28-26 victory. According to Keith Inglis of Texas Tech OnSI, the New Orleans scouting staff was among 14 other professional teams present at the game. Tankathon's 2027 prospect rankings indicate two Houston players and seven Texas Tech players as notable talents. Among Houston's standouts were running back Makhi Hughes and quarterback Conner Weigman, both considered Day 3 prospects. Weigman had a commendable performance, throwing for 283 yards and three touchdowns, while also adding 56 rushing yards. Hughes also contributed significantly with 70 rushing yards and 39 receiving yards. For Texas Tech, linebackers Ben Roberts, a potential top-100 pick, and Austin Romaine, another Day 3 prospect, each recorded impressive tackle numbers, with eight and seven tackles respectively.
The New Orleans Saints also had scouts attending the game between No. 5 Miami and Wake Forest, as reported by ESPN's Jordan Reid. Miami emerged victorious with a 33-20 score. The Hurricanes boast six potential top-100 prospects and a notable 2028 recruit in wide receiver Malachi Toney. Early assessments place Miami's quarterback Darian Mensah and defensive lineman Justin Scott among this year's top 20 prospects. Mensah continued his strong season with 220 passing yards and three touchdowns on 30-for-34 passing. Running back Mark Fletcher Jr., projected as a third-rounder, contributed 85 rushing yards before a shoulder injury. Defensive lineman Ahmad Moten Sr., a possible first-round pick, recorded three tackles and half a sack, as the Miami defense showcased a collective effort. Toney further solidified his standing as a top 2028 prospect, tallying 12 receptions for 114 yards and a touchdown.
The New Orleans Saints' diligent scouting during Week 3 of the college football season reflects a thorough approach to identifying future talent. By closely monitoring key matchups and individual player performances, the team aims to build a strong foundation for sustained success in the NFL. The performances of players like Conner Weigman, Makhi Hughes, Darian Mensah, and Malachi Toney have undoubtedly caught the attention of the Saints' scouting department, offering a glimpse into the potential additions that could shape the team's competitive landscape in the coming years.
