Let’s dive into the Week 16 matchup between the New Orleans Saints and the New York Jets - a game that could offer another glimpse into the Saints’ young core taking shape across both sides of the ball.
OT Kelvin Banks: Rookie Moments, But Plenty of Dominance
Kelvin Banks has already shown flashes of being a long-term answer at left tackle, and against Carolina, we saw more of what makes him such a promising piece. The penalties - they’re still there, and he did get beat a few times.
That’s part of the rookie curve. But when Banks wins, he wins big.
His anchor in pass protection and ability to move defenders off the line in the run game are already at a high level.
Looking ahead to the Jets, this is a matchup Banks can control. New York’s pass rush hasn’t been as disruptive as expected, and if Banks keeps his technique clean, he’s got the tools to dominate from the opening snap to the final whistle.
QB Tyler Shough: The Future is Arriving Fast
Tyler Shough’s performance in Week 15 wasn’t just about managing the game - he made plays that mattered. He showed poise, command of the offense, and delivered in key moments. For a rookie quarterback, that’s not just encouraging - it’s foundational.
The Saints appear to have found their starter for 2026 and possibly well beyond. Shough is elevating the offense with his decision-making and ability to extend plays.
Against a struggling Jets defense that’s had trouble defending the pass, this could be another step forward. If he stays sharp, this might be one of those breakout performances that gets people talking league-wide.
S Jonas Sanker: Trending Up, With a Big Test Ahead
Jonas Sanker didn’t have the highlight-reel moment last week, but his play was more consistent - and that matters just as much. He cleaned up some of the tackling issues that had popped up earlier in the season and looked more comfortable in space.
This week, he’ll be tasked with one of the tougher assignments in football: keeping Breece Hall from breaking the game open. Hall is a home-run threat every time he touches the ball, and Sanker’s angles, discipline, and tackling will be tested all afternoon. If he’s able to slow Hall down, it could swing the game.
CB Quincy Riley: Quiet, But Clutch
Quincy Riley didn’t come away with a turnover against Carolina, but that doesn’t mean he didn’t make a difference. One of the biggest plays of the game came late in the first half, when Riley disrupted what looked like a sure touchdown pass to Panthers rookie Tetairoa McMillan. That’s the kind of situational awareness and ball skills you want from a young corner.
Now, with Jets rookie QB Brady Cook already throwing five interceptions in just two starts, Riley’s ballhawk instincts could be rewarded. The opportunities will be there. If he capitalizes, it could be a momentum-shifting moment in a game where every possession might count.
Bottom Line
The Saints are leaning heavily on youth, and it’s starting to pay off. From the trenches with Banks to the back end with Riley and Sanker - and most importantly, under center with Shough - this team is building something. Week 16 against the Jets isn’t just another game on the schedule; it’s another chance to see if this young core can keep stacking wins and proving they belong.