The New Orleans Saints will open their 2026 preseason Saturday against the Jacksonville Jaguars without most of their projected starters. Head coach Kellen Moore has opted to give the first-team players their competitive work during the teams’ joint practice, leaving the preseason opener primarily for backups, young players and roster hopefuls.
That may sound disappointing to fans hoping to see quarterback Tyler Shough and the starting offense, but it creates an important opportunity for players trying to establish themselves. Here are eight Saints worth watching closely.
1. Spencer Rattler, QB
Rattler could be one of the most important players on the field. With Shough sitting, the former high-profile prospect gets an opportunity to show how much he has developed and strengthen his case in the competition for the No. 2 quarterback job. Zach Wilson is also competing for that role, making every preseason snap valuable.
2. Kendre Miller, RB
Miller has plenty to prove after an inconsistent start to his NFL career. With the Saints evaluating their running-back depth, a strong performance against Jacksonville could help him establish himself as a reliable contributor. His explosiveness and ability to create yards after contact will be worth watching.
3. Jamaal Williams, RB
Williams is another veteran running back whose preseason opportunity could carry significant weight. He will need to demonstrate that he can still provide dependable production while also showing value in pass protection and short-yardage situations.
4. Trevor Penning, OT
The offensive line deserves special attention following the season-ending ACL injury suffered by Dillon Radunz. Radunz was expected to provide valuable versatility, and his absence creates additional opportunities for other linemen.
Penning’s performance will therefore be especially important as the Saints search for reliable depth up front.
5. Khristian Boyd, DT
The sixth-round rookie defensive tackle has a chance to make a strong early impression. With injuries affecting the defensive front, Boyd could receive significant snaps and show whether he can become part of the rotation. Rookie defensive tackle Christen Miller is also expected to receive extensive opportunities.
6. Kool-Aid McKinstry, CB
The Saints’ secondary is undergoing significant change, making every young cornerback rep important. McKinstry will have an opportunity to show his development against Jacksonville’s receivers and potentially strengthen his claim for a larger role.
7. Bryce Lance, WR
Lance has reportedly impressed during camp and now gets the kind of game environment where practice success can translate into something tangible. His ability to separate, make contested catches and create after the catch could make him one of the night’s most intriguing young offensive players.
8. Barion Brown, WR
Brown is another young receiver who has generated attention during camp. His speed gives the Saints a potential big-play element, and preseason games are where players like him can turn flashes into legitimate roster momentum.
Ultimately, Saturday isn’t about seeing how the Saints’ established stars perform. It’s about discovering who can step forward when given an extended opportunity. With most starters watching from the sideline, players such as Rattler, Miller, Penning, Boyd and the young receivers have a chance to make the preseason opener much more meaningful than a simple exhibition.
For Moore and the Saints, the game is an audition. For these eight players, it could be the beginning of a much bigger role in 2026.
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