Overview
- Head coach Kellen Moore publicly endorsed Shough for 2026, and GM Mickey Loomis backed the plan while stressing he still needs more starts.
- As a rookie, Shough completed 67.6% of his passes for 2,384 yards with 10 touchdowns and six interceptions, went 5–4 as a starter, and drew Offensive Rookie of the Year consideration.
- Loomis said the Saints can use the No. 8 pick on the best available player rather than feeling compelled to take a quarterback.
- Key veterans Cameron Jordan, Demario Davis and Taysom Hill are not under contract, with Loomis expressing interest in discussions but noting unresolved variables; Jordan had 10.5 sacks and Davis logged 143 tackles in 2025.
- Under coordinator Brandon Staley, the defense ranked first in total defense and second in scoring defense after Week 9, with Jordan and Chase Young both recording double‑digit sacks.