The New Orleans Saints struggled at the start the 2025 season and it was expected. Spencer Rattler was the team’s Week 1 starter, and there wasn’t a lot of hope yet surrounding the team’s plan for the future.
That all quickly changed when Tyler Shough became the team’s starting quarterback. Shough shined despite a lack of talent around him, ending the season with a 5-4 record and a truly remarkable relationship with star receiver Chris Olave. The team’s turnaround has brought a breath of confidence
to the team for 2026, with the Saints’ offseason moves reflecting this.
So, how well could New Orleans do in 2026?
It’s hard not to be optimistic. Shough looks like the future of the franchise, Olave has grown into a true WR1, and the team has done everything right to build around their second-year quarterback. From the big splash moves in free agency, adding Travis Etienne and David Edwards, to the bold selection adding Jordyn Tyson with the eighth overall pick, the Saints and head coach Kellen Moore believe they could be competitive in the weak NFC South.
Despite moving in the right direction, there are still some glaring holes on the Saints’ roster. It’s hard to replace the veteran presence that linebacker Demario Davis provided, although Kaden Ellis is a worthy replacement, and the secondary is questionable and young, especially with the departure of Alontae Taylor. New Orleans was able to retain Cameron Jordan, but plenty of the core pieces that made up the Saints’ defense in 2025, won’t be present in 2026.
In favor of the Saints is their weak strength of schedule. While finishing last in the division is no accomplishment, it does have its benefits. New Orleans will be facing a last-place schedule, matching them up with some of the weakest competition in the NFL. Among the teams the Saints will face are the Cleveland Browns, New York Giants, and the Las Vegas Raiders, each team with no more than five wins in 2025.
With most aspects accounted for, it’s time to get into my prediction. In 2025, I nailed the Saints record prediction with a 6-11 record, accounting for a midseason quarterback switch, which most people knew was coming. For 2026, I am more confident in the team, but I’m also being cautious. I believe New Orleans will be NFC South champions with a 10-7 record.
A 10-7 record after going 6-11 the season prior is a bit ambiguous, but not unheard of. Just a few months ago, we watched the New England Patriots find themselves in the Super Bowl under the control of a young quarterback. While I don’t think the Saints are quite at that level yet, they are moving in the right direction, and a weak division and schedule should set them up for a solid showing in 2026.
