The New Orleans Saints may have finished at the bottom of the NFC South last season, but don't let that record fool you—there's a quiet storm brewing in the Big Easy. With a revamped offense centered around promising quarterback Tyler Shough, this team is shaping up to be a serious contender in 2026.

General manager Mickey Loomis and head coach Kellen Moore have been busy this offseason, assembling a talented supporting cast that has analysts buzzing. According to Bleacher Report's Gary Davenport, the projected starting lineup looks like this: Tyler Shough under center, Travis Etienne Jr. at running back, a wide receiver trio of Chris Olave, Jordyn Tyson, and Devaughn Vele, Juwan Johnson at tight end, and an offensive line anchored by tackles Kelvin Banks Jr. and Taliese Fuaga.

Let's break down why this unit has the makings of something special. The offensive line, in particular, stands out. Banks and Fuaga already formed a formidable tackle duo last season, and with another year of NFL experience under their belts, they're poised to take their game to the next level. The interior is equally solid, with David Edwards sliding in at left guard, Cesar Ruiz holding down the right side, and Erik McCoy anchoring the center. It may not be the league's flashiest line, but it's well-balanced and built to protect Shough while opening up running lanes.

At tight end, Juwan Johnson leads a deep and versatile group. Veteran Noah Fant and rookie Oscar Delp round out a trio that can both block effectively and create mismatches in the passing game—a crucial asset for any young quarterback.

The running back room is another area of strength. Travis Etienne Jr. was the big offseason addition, bringing explosive playmaking ability to the backfield. But the Saints also have future Hall of Famer Alvin Kamara still under contract, along with Keandre Miller and other capable options. It's not just a one-man show; it's a deep, versatile committee that can keep defenses guessing.

While the jury is still out on Tyler Shough as a franchise quarterback, the pieces around him are undeniably elite. For Saints fans and fantasy football enthusiasts alike, this offense has all the ingredients to be a must-watch unit in 2026. Whether you're stocking up on Saints gear or just looking for a team to root for, New Orleans is building something worth believing in.