Saints Offense Primed for Breakout Season

Analysts believe New Orleans has the pieces to win the NFC South in 2026

Mar. 22, 2026 at 1:05pm

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The New Orleans Saints are poised for a breakout season in 2026 thanks to a revamped offense built around young quarterback Tyler Shough. The Saints made several key offseason additions, including offensive lineman David Edwards, tight end Noah Fant, and running back Travis Etienne, that have analysts believing the team can win the NFC South for the first time since 2020.

Why it matters

The Saints' offense struggled at times in 2025, but with Shough now firmly entrenched as the starting QB and several high-profile free agent signings, the team has the potential to return to the playoffs and challenge for a division title in the competitive NFC South.

The details

In just nine starts as a rookie, Shough broke multiple team records and finished as the runner-up for Offensive Rookie of the Year. His strong play has convinced several top free agents to join the Saints, including offensive lineman David Edwards, tight end Noah Fant, and running back Travis Etienne. The Saints' offense is now built specifically around Shough's strengths, which should allow him to take another big step forward in 2026.

  • Tyler Shough started the final nine games of the 2025 season for the Saints.
  • The Saints signed David Edwards, Noah Fant, and Travis Etienne in free agency this offseason.

The players

Tyler Shough

The Saints' young quarterback who broke multiple team records as a rookie in 2025.

David Edwards

An elite pass-blocking offensive lineman who signed with the Saints in free agency after playing for the Rams and Bills.

Noah Fant

A tight end who signed with the Saints in free agency after playing for the Bengals, providing a big-bodied weapon for the offense.

Travis Etienne

A running back with three 1,000-yard rushing seasons who signed with the Saints in free agency, adding another dynamic playmaker to the offense.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The Saints will look to build on their strong offseason moves during training camp and the preseason as they prepare to challenge for the NFC South title in 2026.

The takeaway

With a young, talented quarterback in Tyler Shough and several high-profile free agent additions, the New Orleans Saints have the potential to return to the playoffs and reclaim the NFC South crown in 2026.