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2026 NFL draft preview: Where New Orleans Saints stand at quarterback
TL;DR
The New Orleans Saints are focusing on quarterback Tyler Shough as they prepare for the 2026 NFL Draft, with plans to potentially draft another passer. They have eight draft picks, including multiple selections in the fourth and fifth rounds, to strengthen their roster.
We'll be previewing the New Orleans Saints' priorities in the 2026 NFL Draft at each position group, starting with the quarterbacks. It sure looks like the Saints got a good one in Tyler Shough last year, and the plan seems to be building around him this offseason. With eight draft picks and multiple selections in rounds four and five, they could very well invest in another passer to develop as a backup.
Who's on the roster?
- Tyler Shough
- Spencer Rattler
- Zach Wilson
Shough took over for Rattler as the starting quarterback at midseason, and there aren't many questions about the pecking order in 2026. The Saints brought in Wilson to push Rattler for the QB2 spot, but Shough is secure on top. If Wilson doesn't have as much to offer as coaches anticipated, the Saints can move on without hurting their salary cap outlook in September.
Who departed this offseason?
- Jake Haener
- Hunter Dekkers
Haener left the Saints for a new opportunity with the Kansas City Chiefs, while Dekkers is trying his hand in the UFL. Dekkers is currently sidelined with an unspecified injury but figures to have a spot waiting for him in New Orleans once the spring league's season is over, if he wants it.
Team need: Low priority
Sure, the Saints could draft a quarterback later in the draft, if the value is right. It doesn't hurt to invest in a backup plan if other team needs are addressed sooner. Rattler is under contract through 2027 so New Orleans has some time until they have to commit real resources to the quarterback position.
Top draft prospects
- Fernando Mendoza, Indiana
- Ty Simpson, Alabama
- Garrett Nussmeier, LSU
- Carson Beck, Miami
- Drew Allar, Penn State
This isn't a very strong quarterback class -- really, it's kind of weak, and will probably have just one first rounder. Maybe two if a team is worried about Simpson not making it to their pick in Round 2. Don't expect the Saints to prioritize quarterback early on, but if Nussmeier, Beck, or Allar is somehow available in Round 5? That could be a good value pick.
This article originally appeared on Saints Wire: 2026 NFL draft preview: Where New Orleans Saints stand at quarterback
Q&A
Who is the starting quarterback for the New Orleans Saints in 2026?
Tyler Shough is the starting quarterback for the New Orleans Saints in 2026.
What are the New Orleans Saints' plans for the 2026 NFL Draft regarding quarterbacks?
The Saints plan to build around Tyler Shough and may draft another quarterback to develop as a backup.
What is the quarterback depth chart for the New Orleans Saints in 2026?
The depth chart includes Tyler Shough as the starter, followed by Spencer Rattler and Zach Wilson competing for the QB2 spot.
