The final phase of offseason practice is on the way with mandatory minicamp quickly rounding the corner. As the two-day camp approached for the New Orleans Saints, a few major storylines could see some progress. From negotiations with star players to health and participation of playmakers, the team’s June 16-17 camp days could further some key developments.
The Future of Running Back Alvin Kamara
Consistently the biggest story of the offseason, Alvin Kamara’s future with New Orleans remains uncertain. Following the offseason acquisition of back Travis Etienne Jr., many questions have circulated about Kamara’s fit in head coach Kellen Moore’s offense.
After a brief appearance during the voluntary Organized Team Activities (OTAs) session, Kamara hadn’t returned to the team facility by the midway point of the final week. During minicamp his attendance will be expected.
Kamara has made it a point to show that he intends to be with the team in 2026. The mandatory period ahead of the pre-training camp break is his next opportunity to further the point while New Orleans continues to assess its position in his future.
Wide Receiver Chris Olave’s Health
Many were quick to sound the alarm when Moore mentioned that Chris Olave was continuing his recovery from a blood clot that sidelined the wideout for the final game of the season in January. However, Olave was clear that he was still in the process of getting cleared for team activities during the first week of OTAs.
The wideout may not participate in minicamp’s team drills either, as the team focuses on making sure he’s ready for training camp in July. But at the very least, it’s possible he speaks with the media to update on the situation, which is likely one of caution.
Recovery Progress for Rookie Wideout Jordyn Tyson
“We’ll see,” Moore said during the final open OTA media availability when asked if rookies Jordyn Tyson and defensive tackle Christen Miller will participate in mandatory minicamp.
The answer lends itself more so toward a continued conservative approach with both players rather than an expectation of progress. And that might be for the best.
It’s far more important that players like Tyson, Miller, Olave and others undergoing a recovery process are ready for training camp than it is that they’re present for minicamp. The Saints would be wise to continue their careful approach with their top names and investments.
Developing Leadership
Throughout OTAs, the Saints have seen a number of players begin to step into leadership roles, filling the gaps left behind by veteran departures. While styles will change and leadership will look different in 2026, “different” doesn’t mean “bad.”
Players like quarterback Tyler Shough, defensive end Chase Young and linebacker Kaden Elliss are among those that are expected to step in and fill those roles this season.
Shough’s Next Steps
It’s a relief to many that the team has its quarterback established going into the 2026 season. No controversies, no competition for the top role. Instead, the team has a clear vision ready to prepare and execute for the year.
Seeing Shough grow into his own as a standard-bearer and the team’s top passer will continue for the foreseeable future, but the next glimpse comes at mandatory minicamp.
The second-year passer hasn’t hesitated to step into the spotlight at the NFL’s most important position. His confidence and attention to detail will be vital to the team achieving its hopes for success this season. That work continues as the full team is expected to be present.
