As the NFL calendar turns to the late spring of 2026, all eyes in the Big Easy are fixed on the practice fields for the start of New Orleans Saints OTAs. Following a transformative offseason, the Saints enter this phase of the program with a blend of youthful potential and veteran leadership, but several looming questions remain unanswered. From the development of a second-year quarterback to the restructuring of a veteran-heavy defense, the sessions in Metairie will provide the first real glimpse into the squad's identity for the upcoming season.
Can Tyler Shough Take the Next Step in Year Two?
Perhaps the most significant storyline heading into the New Orleans Saints OTAs is the progression of Tyler Shough. Now entering his second year in the league, Shough is no longer the rookie learning the basic terminology of the playbook. The expectations have shifted from merely "learning the ropes" to actively commanding the huddle and demonstrating the poise required of a starting NFL signal-caller.
The coaching staff will be looking for improved decision-making and faster processing from Shough during 7-on-7 and 11-on-11 drills. With a full season of professional experience under his belt, the physical tools—the arm strength and mobility—are evident. However, the mental aspect of the game remains the final hurdle. Shough's ability to build chemistry with his receiving corps during these non-contact sessions will be vital. The Saints need to see if he can consistently find the open man and avoid the turnovers that often plague young quarterbacks as they transition into more prominent roles.
The Role of Alvin Kamara in the 2026 Offense
Veteran running back Alvin Kamara remains the heartbeat of the Saints' offensive attack, but his role continues to be a major point of discussion as the team enters a new era. As he prepares for another season in New Orleans, the question isn't whether Kamara is still a dynamic talent—it's how the team manages his workload to maximize his efficiency while integrating new offensive wrinkles.
During the New Orleans Saints OTAs, the offensive staff will be experimenting with how to best deploy their star playmaker. Key areas of focus include:
- Versatility: Will the Saints utilize Kamara more as a traditional runner or lean into his elite pass-catching abilities out of the backfield?
- Rotation: How will the backfield touches be distributed alongside younger prospects to ensure Kamara remains fresh for the late-season push?
- Scheme Fit: How does Kamara’s unique skill set mesh with the evolving offensive philosophy under the current coaching regime?
For Kamara, OTAs are less about physical conditioning and more about the nuances of the playbook. His presence on the field provides a vital safety net for a young quarterback like Shough, and their rapport will be a primary focus for the coaching staff over the coming weeks.
A New Defensive Identity: Elliss and Young
On the other side of the ball, the Saints are undergoing a philosophical shift, and the New Orleans Saints OTAs will highlight the new faces of the defense. Kaden Elliss has emerged as a central figure in this unit. Described as the "new face" of the defense, Elliss brings a high-motor playstyle and leadership qualities that the team hopes will anchor the middle of the field for years to come.
Complementing the leadership of Elliss is the high-profile addition of Chase Young. The former top draft pick brings a level of pass-rushing pedigree that the Saints have been searching for to bolster their front four. These OTA sessions serve as the first opportunity to see how Young fits into the defensive front and how his presence creates opportunities for the rest of the line.
The synergy between the defensive line and the linebacking corps is paramount. The coaching staff will be watching closely to see how Elliss and Young communicate and if their combined athleticism can help New Orleans return to the top tier of NFL defenses. The goal is to create a more aggressive, disruptive unit that can dictate the tempo of the game.
Setting the Foundation for Training Camp
While OTAs are voluntary and conducted without pads, the foundation for a successful season is laid during these spring mornings. For Tyler Shough, Alvin Kamara, and the new defensive leaders, these practices are about more than just reps—they are about establishing the culture and the standard of performance expected in New Orleans.
As the Saints navigate these three critical questions, the answers they find in May and June will directly impact their standing in a competitive NFC South. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if this roster can transform its potential into a cohesive, playoff-caliber team before they even arrive at training camp in July.
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