Now that mandatory minicamp is over, the New Orleans Saints will see some time away from the facility before returning at the end of July for training camp. This offseason has proven some important aspects about the team and its progress going into its second year with head coach Kellen Moore as its leader.
Here are some of the biggest takeaways from offseason practices.
There’s explosive potential in this offense.
Not everything was perfect for the offense throughout these working sessions, but what was clear is the potential of the unit. With Quarterback Tyler Shough at the helm and building chemistry with pass-catchers across the depth chart, the offense’s potential could meet the explosive expectations the franchise has been in search of for some time.
The high note that the season ended on last year has created momentum going into 2026. The Saints are committed to building off of that inertia and now have an offense with promising potential.
Once wide receivers Chris Olave and Jordyn Tyson are fully integrated into the mix come training camp, the already exciting nature of the passing offense should continue to build. Meanwhile, running back Travis Etienne Jr. is set to bolster the run game to dynamic heights.
The rookies will see a lot of work in training camp.
Last year, the rookie class saw the most snaps during camp. This year is setting up to be a repeat. Drafted or undrafted, expect rookie and developmental players to see a lot of action over the course of training camp. From taking reps with any and all units throughout the practice day to additional work in the post-practice developmental period, the inaugural camp for this year’s class is expected to be a hefty and competitive workload.
Team continues to focus on bonding beyond the boundaries.
From offseason throwing sessions to meals, whether staying in New Orleans or returning home, several players have big plans for how they’ll spend their time away from the Saints’ facility. Calling the period between minicamp closing and training camp opening a “break” is always a bit of a misnomer in that players continue to work. It’s more “time away” than anything else.
While there will be some individually focused work for players, many will also find time to meet up and work with their respective positions or sides of the ball. The focus on camaraderie continues even away from Airline Drive.
Leadership dropoff has been substantially mitigated.
After the re-signing of defensive end Cameron Jordan, the concerns around veteran leadership being lost were reduced considerably. But even beyond Jordan’s return, leaders like Shough, linebacker Kaden Elliss, defensive end Chase Young and more were all seen setting the tone throughout practices. From celebrating with teammates to calling our errors and providing corrections, the Saints do not appear to be lacking for a standard. Leadership may look different in 2026, but no one will be able to say it’s missing in totality.
Competition is on the rise.
Position battles always dominate training camp discussion, but competition doesn’t require the reward of playing time or even a roster spot to be valuable. In many ways, competition is the first step to success in the NFL.
The Saints are leaning in on that already. After not running full team drills until training camp in 2025, the Saints began those sessions late in Organized Team Activities (OTAs) this year. That design is the result of not having to install an entirely new system with a new coaching staff and roster, but also shows signs of determination from the staff to drive development through competition.
Last year, New Orleans ran a 126-play, unscripted scrimmage. Don’t be surprised to see more of that in 2026.
