The New Orleans Saints skipped past the warning signs to select quarterback Tyler Shough and wide receiver Jordyn Tyson in the last two NFL Drafts, and they firmly believe those two young talents can lead the offense in the years to come. The former has already shown promise under center. Now, the organization is taking its gambler’s mindset to the other side of the ball. Ole Miss standout Zxavian Harris is coming to The Big Easy.
The undrafted rookie defensive tackle is officially joining the Saints’ 90-man roster, per Pro Football Talk’s Josh Alper. After being linked to the team for about a week, Harris will now get an opportunity to earn a role with New Orleans heading into the 2026-27 season. He cannot get to work quite yet, however.
Although the 6-foot-7, 330-pound Mississippi native is present at rookie minicamp, he is unlikely to participate in any on-field drills after undergoing foot surgery in March, according to NewOrleans.Football’s Nick Underhill. Injury questions could partially explain why Harris did not hear his name called during the draft. His legal issues might have also occupied air space in some war rooms.
Harris was arrested on domestic violence and obstructing arrest charges in August of 2024. He was also arrested in 2023 on charges of driving under the influence and felony fleeing. The 22-year-old aims to prove himself to the Saints, both as a person and player.
Zxavian Harris boasts terrific size and length and also had loads of experience playing against SEC competition. He recorded three sacks, 27 solo tackles, nine tackles for loss and an interception last season. His contributions helped the Rebels survive Lane Kiffin’s defection to LSU, as the program advanced all the way to the College Football Playoff Semifinals.
New Orleans is trusting this prospect to shore up its run defense and add another layer to the interior. Harris will try to reward the Saints’ faith.
The New Orleans Saints skipped past the warning signs to select quarterback Tyler Shough and wide receiver Jordyn Tyson in the last two NFL Drafts, and they firmly believe those two young talents can lead the offense in the years to come. The former has already shown promise under center.