
Bryce Lance joins the NFL as the Saints draft Trey Lance's brother
Bryce Lance joins the NFL as the Saints draft Trey Lance's brother
- The New Orleans Saints selected wide receiver Bryce Lance in the fourth round of the 2026 NFL Draft.
- Bryce Lance had an impressive college career at North Dakota State, winning multiple championships and earning All-MVFC recognition.
- His selection aims to boost the Saints' offensive depth and reunite him with his brother, Trey Lance, in the NFL.
Story
In the 2026 NFL Draft, held on April 25, the New Orleans Saints made a significant move to enhance their roster by selecting Bryce Lance, the younger brother of quarterback Trey Lance, with the No. 136 overall pick in the fourth round. This selection marks another set of brothers joining the NFL, highlighting the family legacy in professional football. Bryce, who played his college football at North Dakota State, has an impressive track record, winning two FCS national championships and being recognized as a first-team All-MVFC player during his final two seasons. His consistent performance on the field made him one of the most decorated receivers in recent FCS history, and he expresses potential as a valuable asset for the Saints’ offensive strategy. The Saints have been actively looking to bolster their offense, particularly in the wide receiver position, as previous season evaluations indicated a clear gap in depth behind star receiver Chris Olave. In the 2026 NFL Draft, New Orleans sought to address this issue, having already selected Arizona State wide receiver Jordyn Tyson in the first round. They saw Bryce Lance as an excellent complement to Tyler Shough, the team's quarterback, enhancing their firepower on the field. Bryce had statistical showcases, recording back-to-back 1,000-yard receiving seasons and garnering 25 career touchdowns at NDSU. His speed, agility, and ability to make contested catches equipped him with the tools necessary to succeed at the pro level. Additionally, Bryce's college performance included notable statistics like 127 receptions and over 2,157 receiving yards across 57 games. His athleticism was highlighted by a 4.34-second 40-yard dash time at the NFL Combine, which contributed to his projection as a prototypical boundary receiver. His ability to stretch the field and create space will be crucial for the Saints, who clearly lacked receiving options in the previous season. The relationship between the Lance brothers plays a significant role in their football journeys. Bryce grew up learning from Trey, who had become a top-three NFL Draft pick in 2021. Their shared experiences and family legacy will serve as motivation for both players, as they now embark on their respective professional careers. With his skills and the backing of his older brother, Bryce Lance is poised to carve out an identity of his own in the NFL, showcasing the potential for both success and personal growth in his new role with the Saints.