What's Happening?
Pro Football Focus (PFF) has released its analysis of the New Orleans Saints' rookie class for the 2025 NFL season, focusing on player performance metrics such as total snaps, PFF grades, and Wins Above Replacement (WAR). Kelvin Banks Jr. emerged as a standout, playing the most snaps among the rookies with 1,066 and achieving the highest PFF grade of 76.4. Tyler Shough, another key rookie, led in WAR with a score of 1.132 and ranked first among rookie quarterbacks with a PFF grade of 74.6. Additionally, Danny Stutsman was noted for his performance, ranking third among rookie linebackers with a PFF grade of 71.5. Both Banks and Shough have been recognized league-wide, earning spots on the PFWA All-Rookie team. Shough also received the NFL's Offensive
Rookie of the Month award for December/January 2025 and is a nominee for the NFL Rookie of the Year award.
Why It's Important?
The performance of the Saints' rookies is crucial for the team's future prospects, as these players are expected to form the backbone of the franchise in the coming years. The recognition of players like Tyler Shough and Kelvin Banks Jr. not only highlights their individual talents but also reflects positively on the Saints' scouting and development programs. Shough's nomination for NFL Rookie of the Year and his monthly award underscore his potential to become a key player for the team. This success could influence the Saints' strategy in future drafts and player development, potentially leading to a stronger team performance in subsequent seasons.
What's Next?
As the Saints look to build on their rookie class's success, the focus will likely shift to further developing these players and integrating them into the team's core strategy. The upcoming NFL Rookie of the Year announcement could further elevate Tyler Shough's profile if he wins. Additionally, the Saints may use this positive momentum to attract more talent in the 2026 draft, aiming to fill any gaps and strengthen their roster. The team's management and coaching staff will be closely monitoring these developments to ensure sustained growth and competitiveness in the league.
