Football

Saints Gear Up for a Breakout 2026 Season

Key acquisitions and a second‑year quarterback set the stage for a potential NFC South showdown

The New Orleans Saints closed out the 2025 campaign with a four‑game winning streak that saw them topple the Buccaneers, Panthers, Jets and Titans, a run that has set an optimistic tone heading into the next season.

Quarterback Tyler Shough, who finished the year as the QB12 in fantasy points per game, is slated to take a step forward in his second year under center, giving the offense a clearer direction.

Adding to the excitement, the team inked running back Travis Etienne to a four‑year, $47‑million deal, guaranteeing $28 million, and the move follows his three fully healthy seasons in which he amassed 1,441 total yards and 10 touchdowns.

The Saints also drafted wide receiver Jordyn Tyson in the first round, a player praised for his dynamic route‑running ability and expected to contribute immediately.

A Revamped Offensive Identity

With Chris Olave posting career‑best numbers in targets, receptions, yards and touchdowns last season, the receiving corps now blends proven production with fresh talent, positioning the unit to chase its first NFC South crown since the post‑Brees era.

Defensively, the squad ranked among the top ten in EPA allowed per play during 2025, yet questions remain about sustaining that level without several key departures.

Analysts project the Saints to exceed 7.5 wins in 2026 and to be in the mix for the division title, while the offense is expected to feature Alvin Kamara as the primary pass‑down back, targeting at least 50 receptions.

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