Mason Tipton isn’t making headlines just yet, but don’t let that fool you-he’s making plays that matter, and the New Orleans Saints are taking notice. While the spotlight has mostly been on Tyler Shough’s development under center, Tipton is carving out a role that could land him a spot on the 2026 roster. And if you’ve been watching closely, you know he’s doing it the hard way-through special teams, where every yard counts and every opportunity is earned.
Last week’s game against Tampa Bay opened with one of those momentum-shifting moments that often gets lost in the box score. Tipton took the opening kickoff and returned it to the Buccaneers’ 45-yard line, immediately flipping the field and putting the Saints in plus territory before the offense had even taken a snap.
Offensive coordinator Kellen Moore didn’t downplay it either, calling it “no better way to start the game.” And he’s right-those hidden yards are gold in the NFL.
That return set the tone, and more importantly, the Saints capitalized. It’s the kind of sequence that coaches love: special teams sets the table, and the offense finishes the meal.
But what stands out is how Tipton keeps finding ways to tilt the field in the Saints’ favor. It’s not flashy, and it doesn’t show up on fantasy stat sheets, but it’s the kind of contribution that wins over coaching staffs.
Tipton’s path to the roster is a familiar one. He’s an undrafted free agent in his second year, still grinding for reps and recognition.
Players like him don’t get many chances, and when they do, it’s often on special teams. Just ask Rashid Shaheed, who followed a similar arc before becoming a key piece in New Orleans.
Tipton is essentially stepping into that same role, and he’s making the most of it.
In fact, he’s done it twice in the last three weeks-setting the Saints up in scoring position with big returns. That consistency is what separates flash-in-the-pan plays from sustainable value. If Tipton keeps stringing together these kinds of performances, it’s not hard to imagine him sticking around in 2026 as one of the team’s go-to return specialists.
Of course, it helps when the offense cashes in. The last time Tipton broke off a big return-against Atlanta-the Saints came away empty.
He put them inside the red zone, but the drive stalled, and the field goal attempt missed. That kind of squandered opportunity can deflate a team and overshadow a great special teams play.
But this past Sunday? Different story.
After Tipton’s return, the Saints offense got to work and finished the drive in six plays with a touchdown. That’s what complementary football looks like.
Moore praised the offense for executing early, especially with rain looming. And that weather wasn’t just a footnote-it became a real factor as the game wore on.
Tyler Shough, for his part, was sharp on that opening drive. He only missed one throw, a deep shot to Chris Olave that drew contact but no flag.
It was a borderline call, but it didn’t derail the drive. That kind of poise, especially in changing conditions, speaks to Shough’s growth-and it made sure Tipton’s effort didn’t go to waste this time around.
Bottom line: Mason Tipton is doing the little things that make a big difference. He’s winning the field position battle, he’s giving the offense a head start, and he’s making a case for a longer stay in New Orleans.
It’s not the loudest storyline, but it’s one worth watching. Because if Tipton keeps this up, he won’t be flying under the radar much longer.