Every year, the undrafted free agent market provides NFL teams with hidden gems who can develop into valuable contributors. For the New Orleans Saints, one name stands out as the most intriguing unselected player from the 2026 draft class: defensive end Michael Heldman.
According to The Athletic, as reported by Arye Pulli of Saints Wire via Yahoo Sports, Heldman is considered the Saints' biggest UDFA sleeper pickup this offseason. His college production and physical traits suggest potential to carve out a role as a rotational pass rusher in what has become one of the most competitive defensive end rooms in the NFL.
Though Michael Heldman went unselected during the 2026 NFL Draft, his profile impresses with a relentless motor, an ability to consistently pressure the quarterback, and the physicality suited for the professional level. For a Saints team that has long searched for consistent edge pressure opposite established defensive end Carl Granderson and high-profile addition Chase Young, Heldman presents a low-risk, high-reward opportunity.
The Current Defensive End Landscape in New Orleans
The Saints enter the 2026 season with a deep, talented, and versatile defensive end group. General Manager Mickey Loomis and Head Coach Kellen Moore have assembled a rotation featuring several impactful players:
- Chase Young: The former No. 2 overall pick is seeking a career resurgence in New Orleans. When healthy, Young can be a game-changer with his disruptive pass-rushing skills.
- Carl Granderson: The team's most consistent edge defender, Granderson is a reliable double-digit sack threat who combines power and technique to set the edge against the run.
- Tyree Wilson: A former top-ten pick acquired by the Saints, Wilson possesses high upside. The coaching staff, led by Defensive Coordinator Brandon Staley, aims to unlock his considerable talent.
- Fadil Diggs: A young pass rusher known for his explosive first step, Diggs figures prominently in the team's plans for development.
- Myles Cole: An athletic developmental prospect with the length to thrive as an edge rusher.
- Chris Rumph II: A versatile defender capable of lining up both with a hand in the dirt and standing up as a linebacker, adding schematic flexibility.
Michael Heldman adds a seventh name to this crowded room, fighting for one of the last spots on the depth chart. His primary competition for playing time likely comes against Rumph and Cole for situational pass-rushing opportunities.
What Sets Michael Heldman Apart
The Athletic's scouting report praises Heldman for his production and relentless motor. Though detailed collegiate statistics were not provided, the implication is clear: Heldman regularly penetrated backfields and generated pressure against opposing quarterbacks.
Many undrafted pass rushers succeed by excelling in one elite trait, and for Heldman, that trait is his unyielding pursuit of the quarterback. In today's NFL, edge rushers who can consistently create pressure are among the most sought-after commodities. Even if Heldman's run defense or polish is still developing, his ability to hurry or sack the passer can earn him a spot.
Brandon Staley's defensive scheme emphasizes winning one-on-one matchups, especially in sub-packages where pass rushers can be utilized in advantageous alignments. Staley has a history of maximizing production from under-the-radar pass rushers, which bodes well for Heldman's chance to impress during rookie minicamp and training camp if he can show a reliable counter move and strong edge bend.
The Path to the Saints' 53-Man Roster
Breaking onto the Saints' regular-season roster as an undrafted defensive end is a daunting challenge. Typically, New Orleans activates five or six defensive linemen on game days.
With Granderson, Young, and Wilson essentially locks for those spots, and Diggs and Cole viewed as developmental players with draft capital investment, Heldman is realistically competing for one or two remaining spots in the rotation.
A critical factor for UDFA candidates is their ability to contribute on special teams. Kickoff coverage, punt rush, and field goal block units provide opportunities for fringe roster players to add value. Heldman's best hope to differentiate himself from other hopefuls may come by excelling in these phases of the game.
Even if Heldman narrowly misses the initial 53-man roster, the Saints could consider placing him on their practice squad. However, his sleeper status and The Athletic's endorsement mean that other teams might attempt to claim him off waivers. The Saints will have to weigh his potential carefully.
Undrafted Free Agent Success Stories in New Orleans
The Saints organization has a history of unearthing valuable contributors from the undrafted ranks. Players like safety Jordan Howden, running back Ty Chandler, and wide receiver Mason Tipton all made notable impacts after going undrafted.
This track record demonstrates the team's commitment to evaluating and developing overlooked talent. Michael Heldman fits this mold well. Unlike some prospects who require extensive development, Heldman could potentially contribute immediately in a limited pass-rush or special teams role.
Given the depth of the defensive end room and the inevitable nature of injuries over the long season, Heldman could find himself thrust into a meaningful role sooner than expected.
What's Next for Michael Heldman and the Saints
The real evaluation phase begins with rookie minicamp and then intensified training camp sessions. Heldman must impress the defensive line coaches with his technique, football IQ, conditioning, and preparation.
The Saints' defensive line room is also home to stalwarts like Nathan Shepherd, Bryan Bresee, and Davon Godchaux, which means Heldman will face stiff competition during drills and one-on-one matchups -- especially from interior defenders.
Brandon Staley's aggressive, multiple front defense demands versatility from its rushers. Players who can line up standing as standup edge rushers in passing downs, much like Chris Rumph has done, could be a natural fit for Heldman if he continues to develop key traits such as edge bend and counter moves.
Final Assessment: Sleeper Status Justified
The label of a UDFA "sleeper" is often overused, but The Athletic has earned a reputation for identifying undervalued talent. Their endorsement suggests that Heldman possesses traits that many teams overlooked.
While only a small fraction of UDFAs make NFL rosters, Heldman's production profile, work ethic, and the Saints' organizational strength in developing undrafted players give him a legitimate chance.
As the Saints move forward into offseason workouts and training camp, all eyes will be on how effectively Michael Heldman can convert his preseason hype into a role on a defense that has talent but also unanswered questions. Can Chase Young stay healthy? Can Tyree Wilson reach his potential? Into that conversation steps Heldman--the persistent pass rusher who won't quit chasing the quarterback.
The Saints' 2026 UDFA class has found its headliner. Now, it's time to see if Michael Heldman can back up the hype and make the final roster.
