Saints’ biggest needs if Shough succeeds

By Ross Jackson

With a potential answer looming at quarterback, at least for 2026, the New Orleans Saints could find themselves in position to address other big needs around the roster this offseason. Rookie quarterback Tyler Shough impressed in Week 10, securing the first win for a Saints rookie starting quarterback in 44 years. While that doesn’t yet mean he can be the future of the franchise, he has provided promise for the team and hope for its fanbase. 

Assuming he indeed pans out over the next seven games, performing well enough for the Saints to feel comfortable going into the offseason without a search for their next starter, New Orleans could then turn its attention to building around him instead. 

Here are a few of the team’s biggest needs beyond quarterback that consistent success from Shough could allow the Saints to attack aggressively this offseason.

A Playmaker on Defense

New Orleans has some promising young defensive talent. Rookie defensive backs Quincy Riley and Jonas Sanker have already seen quite a bit of game exposure becoming starters for the unit in their first year. Second-year back Kool-Aid McKinstry is trending up while nickel corner Alontae Taylor may have found his disruptive streak again. However, the team has just 12 takeaways on the season. While that is tied within the top-10, New Orleans is still on the wrong side of the turnover margin at minus-three.

Signing or drafting another player in the secondary or second-level that can bring some playmaking acumen and turnover generation could help defensive coordinator Brandon Staley’s scheme take its next step.

Potential Options in Free Agency: LB Quay Walker, CB Riq Woolen, S Jaquan Brisker

Potential First Round Options in NFL Draft: Ohio State S Caleb Downs, Ohio State LB Arvell Reese, LSU CB Mansoor Delane

Physical X-Receiver

The Saints were prepared to go into the 2025 season with a smaller, fast wide receiver room. But after trading wide receiver Rashid Shaheed to the Seattle Seahawks, the team now has a chance to reshape its wideouts. With Chris Olave and the team considering extension options, adding another weapon at receiver would be a good option to complement the offense. This time, though, the Saints should consider pursuing a bigger-bodied, physical wideout that can be a traditional split end, weakside option. They should consider this even if 6-foot-5 receiver Devaughn Vele pans out through his new opportunity to close out the season.

Potential Options in Free Agency: WR George Pickens, WR Alec Pierce, WR Jauan Jennings

Potential First Round Options in NFL Draft: Arizona State WR Jordyn Tyson, Ohio State WR Carnell Tate, Indiana WR Elijah Sarratt, Louisville WR Chris Bell

Another Explosive Pass Rusher

While the return of defensive end Chase Young has been beneficial for New Orleans, the team still has some question marks at the position. Pass rusher Carl Granderson tends to start seasons strong and finish them with a bang, but has shown a consistent dip in production in the middle of seasons throughout his career, and the future of veteran leader Cameron Jordan is uncertain. 

Looking for another edge rusher that will force opposing offensive coordinators to gameplan for them would be a huge benefit for the Saints. Strengthening their defense should be one of the club’s top priorities this offseason. For Staley’s scheme, finding a pass rusher with some versatility could be a major benefit.

Potential Options in Free Agency: DE Trey Hendrickson, DE Boye Mafe, DE Jaelen Phillips

Potential First Round Options in NFL Draft: Ohio State LB Arvell Reese, Miami DE Rueben Bain Jr., Clemson DE T.J. Parker