There may be no more competitive position room when the New Orleans Saints begin training camp at the end of July than the wide receiver room.
The group is set up with a blend of promising and productive top talent but has a host of contributors vying for limited remaining spots.
That sets up this year’s training camp as an entertaining one from the position, which is set to feature a crowded and competitive group behind the shoo-in top trio of Chris Olave, Devaughn Vele and sensational rookie Jordyn Tyson.
The Names
- Chris Olave
- Jordyn Tyson
- Devaughn Vele
- Bryce Lance
- Barion Brown
- Ja’Lynn Polk
- Mason Tipton
- Kevin Austin Jr.
- Bub Means
- Trey Palmer
- Ronnie Bell
- Brock Rechsteiner
- Jalen Moreno-Cropper
Top Storyline
The top story to follow here throughout camp will undoubtedly be the chemistry and connection between the team’s top trio, Olave, Tyson and Vele, with one another but also with quarterback Tyler Shough. The three are set to be the signal-caller’s primary options in the passing game.
How they complement one another and how they build chemistry with Shough will each be major factors in the team’s 2026 success. The potential, the promise and the expectations are all high.
An additional storyline to watch unfold is one that some hope will be complete before camp begins: Olave’s expected contract extension.
The wideout has said already that he would like to have the deal done before training camp as to avoid distractions, however, the Saints have been more than comfortable working on extension deals well into August and even September in previous years.
No matter when a deal is done, getting it done at all will be a win for both sides as Olave heads into the final year of his rookie contract.
Most Intriguing Battle: Final WR Spot
Along with the top-three wideouts, it’s logically presumed that the fourth and fifth spots on the wide receiver depth chart are also already claimed. Drafted rookie receivers Lance and Brown appear likely to claim their hold on the initial 53-man roster.
That leaves eight wideouts vying for one, maybe two, available roster slots.
Polk appears to hold an early lead, but Palmer’s speed, Tipton’s familiarity and Austin’s late-season showcase of development all stand to keep the decision interesting.
