By Ross Jackson
As Christmas arrives, the positivity around the New Orleans Saints is undeniable. The team appears to have the right head coach-quarterback duo in place to lead the next era, the defense continues to surge and hope is at the highest it’s been in years.
While the optimism is evident and warranted with head coach Kellen Moore and rookie quarterback Tyler Shough at the helm,there’s still much to be done to keep things headed on the right trajectory as the Saints look to get back to competing for the division in 2026.
This year’s Christmas wishlist is filled with new additions that could take the team to new heights and also includes a chance to add draft assets and some ideal player returns.
Former QB Derek Carr Returns to the NFL, Saints Add Draft Capital
With a weaker than expected quarterback draft class on the way, several teams may not be able to answer their quarterback question marks. The Miami Dolphins, Arizona Cardinals, Minnesota Vikings and potentially the Indianapolis Colts have all been added to an already deep pool of teams in need of help at the position, even if just in the early goings of 2026.
Carr surprised many by unexpectedly retiring before the 2025 season began, but has hinted that a return to the game hasn’t been ruled out. Though, it will apparently require a divine calling. It is Christmas, after all.
Should Carr return, the Saints still own his contract rights. Meaning a team interested in acquiring the veteran passer’s services would have to trade with the Saints, much like the Denver Broncos’ pursuit of former Saints head coach Sean Payton. In practice, at least.
New Orleans likely wouldn’t get much more than a day three pick package, but it would still be helpful for whichever draft those picks are eligible.
A Yards After Catch Receiving Threat
New Orleans needs an explosive playmaker that can create with the ball in their hands. Whether via the draft or free agency, this archetype of pass-catcher is a must for the offseason. If wide receivers Devaughn Vele and Chris Olave can continue to work well as a complementary tandem in 2026, adding a run after catch player to the position group would be a huge improvement.
The Saints could also pursue another quintessential X-receiver this offseason, as well. But a player that can turn a five-yard slant into a breakaway explosive play should be high on the list.
An Effective Run Game
Lots to be done to get here. Improvements in the offensive line, health, running back talent, system adjustments and coaching will all have to trend in the right direction to get this job done.
Imagine getting socks in your Christmas stocking and that’s a good parallel to this. Tinkering with the offensive line and drawing up more successful play designs are necessary even if not exciting. But for a sock-enthusiast, (or in this case football-enthusiast) it’s the perfect gift.
Also there’s a punch line in here somewhere about socks, the run game and feet, but maybe Rex Ryan can help us find it.
Another Impactful Edge Rusher
Defensive end Chase Young has been outstanding this year with seven sacks on his shortened season and adding another dynamic pass rusher or hybrid edge defender would bring an entirely new element to defensive coordinator Brandon Staley’s system.
The upcoming draft provides a long list of options, even beyond the first two days.
Bring LB Demario Davis and DE Cameron Jordan Back
Neither defensive star is guaranteed a next year in New Orleans but both deserve to get one more.
Either could have run screaming from the Saints tumultuous rebuild and instead, they remained locked in, contributing and leading every step of the way.
Now that the Saints are in the brink of, at least, division contention next year, finding a way to bring both back would be beneficial for both sides.
New Orleans could build one-year contracts that improve dead cap situations around both players and get legitimate contributors back on their surging defense. Meanwhile, David and Jordan get to realize the fruits of their labor, being a part of the continued improvement of the team.
The contracts will have to be fiscally responsible in order to make sure that New Orleans can continue to build its roster. If at any point the negotiations become cost-prohibitive then it would be time to move on. But it’s not like this would be a sentimental decision in totality.
Jordan leads the defense in sacks with 8.5 and Davis leads the team in combined tackles with 135. The two are legitimate contributors on the field despite their age.
A Fun 2026 Season
Amidst all of the promising momentum the Saints are starting to pile up, there is always concern for disappointment. So beyond anything else, a wish for a fun 2026 season for a fanbase elated with recent progress has to make the list. New Orleans has made the transition from being a boring team with a losing record to becoming an exciting team with a losing record. The next step could be turning out an exciting team with a winning record. But even if it takes another year to pick up the winning record, an exciting, fun and interesting team nonetheless will suffice for many.
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