As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, the New Orleans Saints' roster strategy is coming into focus. In the first of our position-by-position previews, we're looking at the most critical spot on the field: quarterback. The Saints appear to have found their signal-caller of the future in Tyler Shough, who took over the starting role midseason and solidified himself as the clear QB1 heading into 2026.

The plan this offseason is clearly to build around Shough. With eight draft picks at their disposal, including multiple selections in the fourth and fifth rounds, the front office has the flexibility to add depth behind him. The recent departure of Jake Haener to the Chiefs and the UFL stint of Hunter Dekkers (currently injured) has opened a spot on the depth chart.

This creates an interesting dynamic for the QB2 job. The Saints brought in veteran Kellen Mond to compete with Spencer Rattler for the backup role. Rattler's contract runs through 2027, giving the team time to develop a long-term plan, but adding a promising rookie later in the draft could be a savvy move for the future.

However, don't expect a quarterback to be an early-round priority. The 2026 QB class is considered relatively weak, with likely only one or two first-round talents. For the Saints, addressing other team needs will likely come first. But if a player like Garrett Nussmeier, Carson Beck, or Drew Allar experiences an unexpected slide into the middle rounds, the value might be too good for New Orleans to pass up.

While the Saints' immediate future under center seems secure with Shough, the draft presents an opportunity to invest in a developmental prospect. Finding a capable backup is crucial for any team with playoff aspirations, making this a situation worth watching as the draft unfolds.