​Stephen Lew-Imagn Images.Saints’ 53-man roster prediction for 2026 NFL season appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The New Orleans Saints finished 6-11 during Kellen Moore’s first season, but four wins in their final five games created momentum. Tyler Shough enters his second NFL season as New Orleans’ unquestioned starting quarterback after taking control during his rookie campaign. The Saints have placed significant expectations on Shough ahead of the 2026 season.The Saints strengthened his supporting cast by adding Travis Etienne Jr., David Edwards, Noah Fant, and first-round receiver Jordyn Tyson. New Orleans also acquired Zach Wilson, Tyree Wilson, Anfernee Jennings, and Martin Emerson Jr. Kaden Elliss returned, while Ryan Wright arrived to stabilize the punting position.However, injuries have complicated the projection. Bryan Bresee and Dillon Radunz suffered season-ending ACL injuries. Alvin Kamara could miss at least one month with a sprained MCL, while Tyson could miss approximately two months. Cameron Jordan continues recovering from a hamstring injury, and several depth players have missed practice. The Saints also acquired Zamir White from the San Francisco 49ers for Deion Jones and signed Daniel Carlson.Watch sports LIVE with fuboTV (free trial)New Orleans plays its preseason finale at the Dallas Cowboys on Friday. By Sunday, NFL teams must trim their active rosters to 53 players. The league also allows clubs to designate a maximum of two players for return while placing them on applicable reserve lists during final reductions. The Saints open the upcoming NFL season on the road vs. the Detroit Lions on September 13. Here is the complete initial 53-man projection.Quarterbacks (3)Tyler Shough, Zach Wilson, Spencer RattlerShough’s starting status leaves Wilson and Rattler competing for the backup job. Wilson outplayed Rattler in the opener, but neither signal-caller separated themselves vs. the Los Angeles Rams. The Saints should retain all three unless the finale produces a clear winner or creates a trade opportunity.Running backs (5)Alvin Kamara, Travis Etienne Jr., Zamir White, Audric Estime, Kendre MillerEtienne projects as the early-season lead back while Kamara recovers. The White trade reflects New Orleans’ urgent need for healthy depth. Miller improved his chances after returning from a back issue and producing against the Rams. Meanwhile, Devin Neal has battled another hamstring injury, and Estime recently returned from an ankle injury. Ty Chandler suffered a knee injury and joined Moliki Matavao on season-ending injured reserve Tuesday. That uncertainty supports keeping five backs.Wide receivers (5)Chris Olave, Devaughn Vele, Barion Brown, Bryce Lance, Bub MeansOlave remains Shough’s top target, while Vele supplies an established complementary option. Brown can contribute as a receiver and returner. Lance’s draft investment and developmental potential strengthen h