Saints’ most improved positions

By Ross Jackson

Starting with a more eventful free agency period than usual, the New Orleans Saints did a lot of work to address their roster needs in the 2026 offseason. An impressive draft class has since added to that progress, leading to a few position groups getting some notable upgrades through impactful acquisitions. 

Here are a few of the position groups that appear to be the most improved thanks to the Saints’ offseason work.

Wide Receiver

This is undoubtedly the position to see the greatest impact so far. With first-round selection, wide receiver Jordyn Tyson, the team already took a massive step forward. But then, the later draft additions of Bryce Lance and Barion Brown took things even further. 

New Orleans went quickly from having a room full of question marks behind the top two options Chris Olave and Devaughn Vele, to a room brimming with potential. 

Offensive Line

The free agency acquisition of left guard David Edwards was enough already for this group to make the list. But the draft selection of Jeremiah Wright and retention of lineman Dillon Radunz help tremendously as well. 

Add to that a second year for left tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. and a healthy Erik McCoy back at center, and things are headed in the right direction when it comes to protecting quarterback Tyler Shough and paving the way for the run game. 

Running Back

Speaking of bolstering the run game, New Orleans did so with a singular acquisition this offseason. The signing of running back Travis Etienne Jr. gives head coach Kellen Moore another Swiss Army knife-type player in the backfield. 

The Saints’ run game wasn’t exactly what they wanted it to be last year. With Etienne’s home run potential now back in his home state of Louisiana, the ground attack should be much more in line with expectations this year. 

Safety

For the most part, the Saints are returning the exact same room in 2026 that they fielded Week 1 last year. However, a second year for Jonas Sanker, another year with Justin Reid fully immersed with the defensive system from the jump and the return of Julian Blackmon should allow last year’s deepest position group to be even better. 

Defensive Interior  

The Saints’ draft investment in defensive tackle Christen Miller won’t be highlighted as much as it should due to the nature of his position. But Miller stands to be an important addition for the Saints’ defense. His ability to keep the arrow trending upward in run defense (finished No. 2 in total defensive run EPA by the end of the season) and untapped pass rushing prowess make for important improvements in this group.