Could Jordyn Tyson Be the Spark the Saints’ Offense Desperately Needs in 2026?
The New Orleans Saints are heading into the 2026 offseason with one thing on their minds: juice. After a 6-11 campaign in 2025 that saw flashes of potential but far too little firepower, the offense needs an injection of explosiveness-and fast. That’s where Arizona State wide receiver Jordyn Tyson enters the conversation.
According to ESPN’s Field Yates, the Saints could target Tyson early in the 2026 NFL Draft. And based on what we’ve seen from Tyson at the collegiate level, it’s not hard to see why.
He’s got the size, the burst, and the run-after-catch ability that can stretch defenses and create headaches for opposing coordinators. In other words, he’s the kind of playmaker New Orleans has been missing.
A Glimpse of Stability Under Center
The Saints didn’t get the season they wanted in 2025, but they might’ve found something at quarterback. Tyler Shough, at age 26, stepped in and provided a level of steadiness that’s been hard to come by in recent years.
In 11 games, Shough threw for 2,384 yards, completed 67.6% of his passes, and posted a 91.3 passer rating. He added 10 touchdowns against six interceptions, and perhaps most importantly, led the team to a 4-1 record in his starts.
Shough’s mobility also added a new wrinkle to Klint Kubiak’s offense-186 rushing yards and three scores on the ground isn't game-breaking, but it’s enough to keep defenses honest. It’s clear the Saints have a quarterback they can build around. Now the question is: who do they surround him with?
The Olave Factor-and Why Tyson Fits
Chris Olave is already a star in New Orleans. His precise route-running and big-play ability have made him a go-to target.
But as good as Olave is, he can’t do it alone. Defenses know that, and too often in 2025, the Saints’ offense stalled when Olave was taken out of the equation.
Enter Jordyn Tyson. He’s not just a complementary piece-he’s a potential game-changer.
His physicality and ability to create after the catch could make him the perfect counterpart to Olave. Imagine a scenario where defenses have to pick their poison: try to bracket Olave and risk Tyson going off, or key in on the rookie and let Olave do what he does best.
That kind of dynamic duo could finally give New Orleans the offensive identity it's been searching for.
Plenty of Needs, Plenty of Options
Let’s be clear: the Saints’ defense isn’t the issue. That unit held its own throughout 2025.
The problem is on the other side of the ball. Whether it’s wide receiver, running back, or another premium skill position, the Saints need someone who can move the chains and light up the scoreboard.
That’s why the 2026 draft is so critical. Tyson might be the pick, but he’s not the only option.
USC’s Makai Lemon and Ohio State’s Carnell Tate could also be in play at No. 8 overall, depending on how the board falls. And if the Saints decide to go with a different flavor of playmaker, Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love brings a versatile skill set that could thrive in Kubiak’s system.
There’s also the possibility that New Orleans leans defense and takes the best available edge rusher. But make no mistake: the biggest hole on this roster is on offense. And if the Saints want to take the next step in 2026, they’ll need to find someone who can help Shough and Olave carry the load.
Bottom Line
The Saints don’t just need another body at wide receiver-they need a difference-maker. Jordyn Tyson could be that guy.
With the right pick in April, New Orleans has a real chance to reshape its offensive identity and give its young quarterback the tools to succeed. Tyson’s name is one to watch, and if he ends up in black and gold, don’t be surprised if the Saints’ offense looks a whole lot more dangerous this fall.