Sports illustrated analyst Patrick McAvoy believes that the New Orleans Saints still need to make a few additions this offseason but could contend for the NFC South next season even if they bring back the same core roster. Despite the team finishing last with a 6-11 record, New Orleans went 3-3 in the NFC South and won five of its final nine games showing late season momentum that suggests a gap may not be as wide as the standings indicate.
“With the way the Saints played in the nine starts with Shough, they could compete for the division as soon as next year if they just ran it back.” But that wouldn't be a perfect offseason. The Saints should be aiming higher.”
The Saints showed real promise down the stretch giving the fan base a renewed optimism with the way that they closed out the 2025 campaign. With upgrades at a few key positions this offseason, New Orleans could realistically find itself in the playoff picture during the final weeks of the 2026 season.
Saints could reach the next level with a few extra moves this offseason
The Saints aren’t quite a bottom feeder in the NFL, but they still have ground to cover before being discussed as true contenders. McAvoy believes that the Saints need to bring back key veterans Cameron Jordan, Demario Davis, and Alontae Taylor noting their importance to the team’s veteran leadership and culture. He also adds that New Orleans needs to address a few key positions this offseason to complete a near perfect plan and emerge as legitimate contenders in the division.
“The Saints don't have a perfect roster, by any means, but they can compete in the NFC South. Keeping their veteran pending free agents, adding a big-name No. 2 receiver, adding at least one pass rusher, and potentially a cornerback would be enough for the offseason to be perfect.”
McAvoy made several strong points. Getting Tyler Shough another reliable option at receiver and a complimentary pass rusher opposite Chase Young are the most important moves on each side of the ball. Another receiver would improve the depth in a shallow room and possibly give the Saints an impact player. Giving Young a young running mate could make the defense scary for years to come.
With these moves, the Saints win total could climb close to double digits and potentially give them enough victories to clinch the division. Notably, the NFC South has been won with less than 10 wins in three of the last four season.