Alec Elijah

AlecElijah@RoundtableIO

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Alec Elijah is a daily contributor on 49ersRoundtable as well as other channels around the NFL. Outside of RTB, Alec covers College Football and is an NFL Draft Analyst for Pro Football Network. Find him on all socials @CFBAlecElijah

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Saints Playoff Hopes Dwindling

New Orleans hasn’t been eliminated yet, and a playoff run remains possible on paper, though history offers little encouragement, as only seven teams in the post-merger era have recovered from a 1-4 start to reach the postseason.Oct 13, 2026

SaintsRoundtable

Travis Etienne Out Indefinitely

After leaving Week 3's contest against the Las Vegas Raiders early, Saints RB Travis Etienne is set to miss time as announced by Coach Kellen Moore.Sep 29, 2026

SaintsRoundtable

Kelvin Banks Out Indefinitely

Saints left tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. will have surgery in the coming days on a high ankle sprain and is out indefinitely, head coach Kellen Moore announced on Monday.Sep 22, 2026

SaintsRoundtable

Saints Make Aggressive Move for David Bailey in Latest PFSN Mock Draft

The New Orleans Saints aren’t sitting back in the latest PFSN mock draft—they’re making a statement. In a bold move, New Orleans trades up with the New York Giants to secure the No. 5 overall pick, sending picks No. 8 and No. 42 in exchange for a shot at elite defensive talent. With that selection, the Saints land Texas Tech EDGE rusher David Bailey, one of the premier prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft class. Armed with eight total picks, the Saints have the flexibility to be aggressive, and this move reflects a clear priority: upgrading the pass rush. Bailey has rapidly climbed draft boards thanks to a dominant 2025 campaign and an eye-catching NFL Combine performance that solidified his top-five status. For a Saints defense in need of juice up front, Bailey offers immediate returns. He projects as a Day 1 contributor with the upside to become the cornerstone of New Orleans’ defensive front for years to come.Mar 24, 2026

SaintsRoundtable

Eagles Take Chance on Former Saints Safety J.T. Gray

J.T. Gray is getting another shot, and this time, it comes in Philadelphia. The former New Orleans Saints All-Pro safety has signed with the Eagles ahead of the 2026 season, marking a new chapter for one of the league’s most respected special teams contributors. Gray spent seven seasons in New Orleans, where he became a core piece of the roster and a team captain, earning All-Pro recognition for his standout work in the kicking game. However, his time with the Saints ended last offseason, sending him into a more uncertain phase of his career.Mar 22, 2026

SaintsRoundtable

Drew Brees, Tyler Shough Bring Football Flair to Savannah Bananas Show

For one weekend, the Caesars Superdome traded touchdowns for trick plays of a different kind, as Drew Brees and Tyler Shough stepped away from football and into the spotlight of the Savannah Bananas’ high-energy exhibition. The Bananas, famous for their wildly entertaining version of “Banana Ball,” turned the Superdome into a baseball field for the first time in over two decades. With dancing players, surprise celebrity appearances, and nonstop fan interaction, the event felt more like a show than a traditional game, and it gave Brees a chance to reconnect with his baseball roots. Introduced to a roaring crowd as a Super Bowl champion and future Hall of Famer, Brees received a hero’s welcome in the building he once ruled on Sundays. The longtime Saints quarterback, who spent 15 seasons leading New Orleans, soaked in the moment before stepping up to the plate. While his lone at-bat resulted in a groundout, the stat line hardly mattered.Mar 17, 2026

SaintsRoundtable

Saints Receive No Trade Interest for Derek Carr This Offseason

The New Orleans Saints entered the 2026 offseason with uncertainty at quarterback, but one storyline has quietly taken shape: there has been virtually no trade interest in veteran quarterback Derek Carr. Carr, who announced his retirement earlier this offseason, made headlines last month when he revealed he would consider returning to the NFL if the opportunity arose to play for a legitimate Super Bowl contender. However, that possibility appears unlikely for now, as, according to ProFootballTalk, neither at the NFL Scouting Combine nor through the first week of free agency have the Saints received a single inquiry from teams regarding Carr’s contract rights. At this stage of the offseason, only a handful of teams appear to have an unsettled quarterback situation. The Pittsburgh Steelers and Arizona Cardinals are among the few franchises without a clear QB1 heading into the next phase of the offseason.Mar 15, 2026

SaintsRoundtable

Saints Add Explosive Weapon by Signing Travis Etienne in Free Agency

The New Orleans Saints made a notable addition to their offense on the first wave of free agency, signing running back Travis Etienne to strengthen their backfield heading into the 2026 season. Etienne arrives in New Orleans after spending the first part of his career with the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he established himself as one of the league’s most versatile running backs. Known for his speed, explosiveness, and ability to contribute in the passing game, Etienne gives the Saints a dynamic weapon capable of making plays in a variety of ways. The move also brings the Louisiana native back to his home state, adding an extra layer of excitement for both the player and the fanbase. Etienne has consistently shown the ability to produce as both a runner and receiver, making him a valuable addition for a Saints offense looking to become more balanced and explosive. For New Orleans, the signing provides depth and long-term stability in the backfield alongside veteran star Alvin Kamara. While Kamara has remained productive, the Saints have been looking to add another playmaker who can share the workload and keep the offense dangerous on every down.Mar 10, 2026

SaintsRoundtable

Saints Bracing for Possible Departure of Alontae Taylor in Free Agency

The New Orleans Saints could be facing the loss of one of their most versatile defensive backs as cornerback Alontae Taylor prepares to enter free agency. With interest around the league expected to be strong, the Saints may struggle to keep the talented defender in New Orleans. Taylor has steadily built a reputation as one of the more flexible cornerbacks in the NFL. Capable of lining up both on the outside and in the slot, his ability to adjust to different assignments has made him a valuable piece in the Saints’ secondary. That versatility is exactly what he believes will make him one of the most sought-after defensive backs on the open market.Mar 7, 2026

SaintsRoundtable

Saints Could Spark Offensive Reset with Jeremiyah Love at No. 8

If there’s one prospect consistently tied to the New Orleans Saints at No. 8 overall, it’s Jeremiyah Love. And the connection isn’t random. For a franchise searching for explosiveness and long-term offensive identity, Love checks every box. The former Notre Dame standout isn’t your typical early-round running back. In a league that often pushes the position down draft boards, Love has separated himself as a true top-tier weapon. His burst through the hole, ability to flip field position in a single cut, and natural hands as a receiver make him one of the most dangerous playmakers available in this class, regardless of position.Mar 2, 2026

SaintsRoundtable

Former Saints QB Drew Brees Looking to Purchase MLB Team

Fresh off his recent induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, former Drew Brees may be preparing for his next major chapter, this time in Major League Baseball. According to a report from The Athletic’s Dennis Lin and Ken Rosenthal, Brees has joined forces with Vuori owner and CEO Joe Kudla to pursue purchasing the San Diego Padres. Kudla, a Carlsbad-based entrepreneur, has a longstanding relationship with Brees. The two have been workout partners and friends for years, and Brees has frequently helped promote Vuori while attending Padres games as a devoted fan. Brees, who began his decorated NFL career with the then-San Diego Chargers and later became the face of the New Orleans Saints dynasty alongside Sean Payton, is now exploring his first professional sports investment opportunity. The potential sale of the Padres is drawing significant attention, with five total offers reportedly on the table. Among the competing bidders are Golden State Warriors owner Joe Lacob and Chelsea Football Club investor José E. Feliciano.Mar 1, 2026

SaintsRoundtable

Cam Jordan Sees Bright Future in Tyler Shough

Veteran defensive end Cameron Jordan has seen plenty of quarterbacks come through the locker room during his tenure with the New Orleans Saints, and he believes the team may have found something special in Tyler Shough. After Shough’s rollercoaster rookie season, Jordan made his feelings clear in a recent interview. When asked by TMZ Sports whether Shough could be the franchise quarterback in New Orleans, Jordan responded, "I'm hoping so. I think with him there could be a bright future. Hopefully, we continue to build upon that process that we showed last year." Shough’s first year wasn’t without adversity. Despite being one of the highest-drafted quarterbacks in team history and entering the league at 26, he lost the preseason battle to Spencer Rattler. It was an early setback that led to questions about his long-term outlook. But as the season unfolded under first-year head coach Kellen Moore, Shough showed steady improvement. His command of the offense and poise in key moments began to turn heads inside the building. If that upward trajectory continues, Jordan’s optimism may prove well-founded as the Saints build toward a promising future.Feb 24, 2026

SaintsRoundtable

Saints Could Find Secondary Insurance in Asante Samuel Jr.

The New Orleans Saints may not be desperate for cornerback help this offseason, but that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t explore an intriguing opportunity. One name gaining traction as a potential fit is Asante Samuel Jr., whom Pro Football Focus analyst Mason Cameron recently identified as an ideal landing spot candidate for New Orleans. Samuel’s career has taken a winding path. Persistent injury issues, including a neck injury that required surgery last April, stalled his momentum and limited his availability. However, after regaining his health, he latched on with the Pittsburgh Steelers and quietly reminded teams around the league why he was once viewed as one of the more promising young corners in football.  The Saints already have promising young pieces like Kool-Aid McKinstry anchoring the secondary, but adding Samuel would provide experienced depth and flexibility. With contract questions surrounding Alontae Taylor and uncertainty elsewhere on the depth chart, a cost-effective veteran with starting upside could prove valuable.Feb 21, 2026

SaintsRoundtable

Saints Linked to Carnell Tate as Offensive Boost in Latest Mock Draft

The New Orleans Saints are being connected to a potential offensive playmaker in recent mock draft projections, with wide receiver Carnell Tate emerging as a possible target. The talented pass catcher could fill a key void following the departure of Rashid Shaheed while providing another dynamic option alongside Chris Olave. Tate, who starred for the Ohio State Buckeyes football, has the size and skill set teams look for in a true outside “X” receiver. Known for his ability to stretch the field vertically, he consistently wins contested catches and presents a reliable deep-ball target, traits that could help open the offense. His potential impact also ties directly to quarterback development. Young signal-caller Tyler Shough would benefit from a receiver capable of making difficult plays downfield.  With the NFL Draft approaching, adding another weapon could be a logical move for New Orleans. Feb 16, 2026

SaintsRoundtable

What it Would Take for Derek Carr to Comeback

Rumors about Derek Carr potentially returning to football have gained momentum, and the veteran quarterback recently addressed them himself on the podcast he co-hosts with his brother. Rather than dodging speculation, Carr made it clear a comeback isn’t off the table, saying the answer to a return is “obviously yes.” However, he emphasized that any decision would come down to two key factors. First, he needs to feel fully healthy after stepping away from the game. Second, the opportunity must include a legitimate chance to compete for a Super Bowl. Carr revealed he has already turned down interest from a couple of teams because those teams didn’t meet those standards. While his openness keeps the door cracked, the reality is that those conditions aren’t easy to satisfy, making a return possible in theory but still unlikely in the near future.Feb 15, 2026

SaintsRoundtable

Derek Carr’s Potential Comeback Adds Intrigue to Saints’ Offseason

Derek Carr’s NFL future may not be finished after all. The former New Orleans Saints quarterback, who retired last May due to serious shoulder injuries, is reportedly making significant progress in his recovery, raising the possibility of a return to the league. Carr initially stepped away after suffering both a torn labrum and rotator cuff damage in his throwing shoulder. Given the lengthy recovery timeline and the likelihood that surgery would have wiped out most of the 2025 season, retirement became the most logical choice at the time. Since then, though, his shoulder has steadily improved. After months focused on rest and rehabilitation, Carr has resumed throwing regularly and is said to have no current limitations.Feb 10, 2026

SaintsRoundtable

A Defining Date in New Orleans Saints History

February 7 remains a landmark date for the New Orleans Saints franchise and its fanbase. On this day in 2010, the Saints delivered one of the most meaningful victories in team history, defeating the Indianapolis Colts 31–17 in Super Bowl XLIV. The win secured the first Lombardi Trophy for New Orleans and cemented the season as a turning point for both the organization and the city. Beyond football, the triumph carried deep emotional weight for New Orleans, still rebuilding after Hurricane Katrina. February 7 stands not just as a championship anniversary, but as a symbol of resilience, pride, and a franchise forever changed by that historic night.Feb 8, 2026

SaintsRoundtable

Jake Haener Lands Fresh Start with Chiefs on Futures Contract

Former New Orleans Saints draft pick Jake Haener is getting a fresh start, as he has signed a futures contract with the Kansas City Chiefs. NFL insider Mike Garafolo reported the news Monday, noting that Haener opted to leave New Orleans after his practice squad contract expired and join one of the league’s premier organizations, one currently in need of quarterback depth. This signing won’t shift expectations, but it’s a sensible depth move. In the right system, Haener could develop into a dependable long-term backup for Kansas City.Feb 3, 2026

SaintsRoundtable

Jahri Evans Set for New Chapter on Steelers Coaching Staff

Jahri Evans is closing one chapter and opening another, as the longtime New Orleans Saints standout prepares to continue his coaching career with the Pittsburgh Steelers. The former All-Pro guard, whose roots as both a player and coach are firmly planted in New Orleans, is set to join Pittsburgh’s staff as an assistant offensive line coach. After wrapping up a decorated playing career, Evans returned to the Saints in 2022 as a coaching intern, easing into the profession.  Over the past three seasons, his role steadily expanded, highlighted by a promotion in 2025 when he worked under offensive coordinator Kellen Moore.  Evans now becomes the first member of Moore’s initial Saints staff to take a job elsewhere this offseason.Feb 1, 2026

SaintsRoundtable

Saints Select USC Star Receiver in Recent PFSN Mock Draft

Pro Football Sports Network has the New Orleans Saints finding a spark at No. 8 in its latest mock draft by selecting USC wide receiver Makai Lemon, a move that addresses multiple needs on offense and special teams.  The Biletnikoff Award winner was one of college football’s most electric players, eclipsing 1,100 receiving yards and scoring 13 total touchdowns while serving as the focal point of USC’s offense.  Though he won’t be mistaken for a physical blocker, Lemon’s speed, acceleration, and versatility make him dangerous in space. Paired with Chris Olave, he could help re-energize a Saints offense desperate for big-play potential as they build around Tyler Shough next season. Jan 27, 2026

SaintsRoundtable