A top receiver projection ignites speculation: Could Jordyn Tyson electrify the Saints' offense and transform their 2026 outlook?
The New Orleans Saints struggled in 2025. They did so in large part due to a lack of explosion offensively. Many expect the team to address that weakness this offseason through free agency or the NFL draft, or both.
ESPN NFL analyst Field Yates believes that the Saints could draft a top wide receiver early in the 2026 NFL draft. And while Yates may be more known for other things surrounding the NFL, it's clear he's dialed into the league. He has New Orleans taking Arizona State's top receiver Jordyn Tyson.
Julian Ojeda of Clutch Points discussed the potential move and why the Saints could benefit greatly from having a top receiver in the mix. Ojeda wrote the following.
"The Saints finished 6-11 in 2025, but Shough, 26, showed signs of stability under center. Across 11 games, he threw for 2,384 yards while completing 67.6% of his passes, tallying 10 touchdowns and six interceptions. He posted a 91.3 passer rating and a 48.8 QBR, helping guide New Orleans to a 4-1 mark in his starts.
Shough also contributed on the ground, rushing for 186 yards on 45 carries with three touchdowns, adding a complementary layer to Moore’s scheme.
If the projection holds, pairing Tyson’s size and run-after-catch ability with Olave could reshape the Saints’ offensive outlook as they attempt to rebound and build around their young quarterback in 2026."
Tennessee Titans running back Tony Pollard (20) runs the ball against New Orleans Saints defensive end Jonathan Bullard (98) during the first quarter of the game at Nissan Stadium. Steve Roberts-Imagn ImagesThe needs for the Saints are fairly simple and straightforward. New Orleans was excellent on the defensive side of the football field. What the team really needs is offense, particularly at wide receiver or another skill position.
More important than scheme fit or skill set, the Saints need production at wide receiver. They need it in the worst way.
New Orleans can benefit from a bigger receiver than current star Chris Olave or one that is similar. It is unclear if anyone around the Saints would argue with having two Chris Olave's on the roster. Certainly, that would pose a unique advantage. What the team needs, however, is to put points on the board any way that it can. A player like Tyson could help them do that.
Who to draft may come down to preference. Would the Saints rather have Tyson or another receiver like Makai Lemon from USC or Ohio State's Carnell Tate should he fall to the No. 8 pick. Add in the wild card of Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love and the Saints have options. That's to say nothing of the potential edge rushers that could be available if the Saints are strictly picking off best available.
It's a big offseason for the Saints. They will look to secure the right pick at No. 8.