Saints Sign Former First-Round Pick to Bolster Offense

Noah Fant joins New Orleans to develop chemistry with quarterback Tyler Shough

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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The New Orleans Saints have signed tight end Noah Fant to a two-year deal, adding a former first-round pick to their offense. Fant, who previously played for the Denver Broncos, Seattle Seahawks, and Cincinnati Bengals, will look to develop chemistry with Saints quarterback Tyler Shough as the team aims to return to playoff contention in 2026.

Why it matters

The Saints struggled in 2025, finishing 6-11 and last in the NFC South. Bringing in a talented tight end like Fant gives them another weapon for Shough and could help the offense improve after a down year.

The details

Fant was a first-round pick by the Broncos in 2019 and has started for three different teams in his NFL career so far. With the Bengals in 2025, he had 34 catches for 288 yards and 3 touchdowns. The Saints are hoping he can build on that production and become a reliable target for Shough as the young quarterback looks to take a step forward in his second season as the starter.

  • Fant signed a two-year deal with the Saints on March 10, 2026.

The players

Noah Fant

A tight end who was a first-round pick by the Denver Broncos in 2019 and has played for the Seahawks and Bengals as well.

Tyler Shough

The Saints' starting quarterback, entering his second season in 2026.

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What they’re saying

“Another weapon for the Saints: They've agreed to terms with Noah Fant on a two-year deal, sources tell me and @RapSheet.”

— Tom Pelissero, NFL Insider (NFL Network)

What’s next

The Saints will continue to make roster moves this offseason as they look to build around Tyler Shough and return to the playoffs for the first time since 2020.

The takeaway

By signing a talented tight end like Noah Fant, the Saints are showing their commitment to developing Tyler Shough and giving the young quarterback the weapons he needs to succeed. This move could be a key part of the team's efforts to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 season.