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By Ross Jackson
After a busy and productive offseason, the New Orleans Saints are on the brink of showing some substantial growth in 2026. Some of those improvements will be due to new additions via free agency, the draft and the trade market. However, some pivotal development steps will be taken because of returning players.
Three players, in particular, are in position to have vital breakout seasons this year. If each were to transpire, the Saints hopes of returning to playoff contention should be well within reach.
QB Tyler Shough
Some could argue that Shough is already too established on the league radar to have a breakout season, but 2026 still offers a chance to elevate his status. Being the Week 1 starter and returning to the same system both offer a key advantage to take a noticeable step forward this year.
With new weapons like first-round wide receiver Jordyn Tyson and an improved run game surrounding him, Shough’s confidence should be even higher going into year two.
He will also get his first opportunity to perform on the biggest national stage in the regular season with a Week 4 Monday Night Football matchup against the rival Atlanta Falcons scheduled.
Shough’s chance to advance the Saints as his development continues is undeniable.
EDGE Carl Granderson
The breakout opportunity has been awaiting Granderson for a few years now, but this season appears to offer him his best chance yet. As of now, free agent defensive end Cameron Jordan remains unsigned. If that remains the situation moving into the season, Granderson will have the clearest path to impact at the edge rusher spot opposite star Chase Young.
With new additions via trade and free agency in tow, the Saints will have a rotation of players to consider at the position. But with the attention that Young will get from opposing offenses and ideally improved interior play, Granderson stands the best chance to be able to take advantage of one-on-one opportunities off of the edge.
Yet to have a double-digit sack season in his pro career, 2026 offers a great chance to log his first.
S Jonas Sanker
Whether the second-year safety is manning the deep safety, box safety or STAR/slot cornerback role, he has a real chance to continue making an impression in 2026.
During his rookie year, Sanker proved to be consistent, resilient and ready to produce at the NFL level immediately. Going into his second year with the Rutledge of defensive coordinator Brandon Staley and veteran safety Justin Reid, Sanker is primed for a breakout and impactful defensive role, no matter where he lines up.
