RISING: Are the New Orleans Saints and Tyler Shough READY to SHOCK the NFC South in 2026?

New Orleans Saints shake up the NFC South with bold offensive upgrades and a promising young core. Can Tyler Shough’s breakout rookie performance behind an overhauled offensive line—featuring Kelvin Banks, Taliese Fuaga, and newcomer David Edwards—ignite a playoff surge under Kellen Moore’s play-calling? Chris Olave, Jordan Tyson, and dynamic backfield duo Alvin Kamara and Travis Etienne headline an attack poised for a leap, but depth questions at wide receiver loom large. On defense, Pete Werner and Kaden Ellis anchor a revamped linebacker unit, while Chase Young and Carl Granderson headline an edge group blending upside and reliability. The secondary boasts rising stars Kool-Aid McKinstry and Quincy Riley, with Justin Reid offering veteran stability. Can Brandon Staley maximize this youth movement after top-10 marks in red zone and third-down defense last season? Favorable scheduling and improved roster depth have the Saints primed as the NFC South’s dark horse contender.