The New Orleans Saints’ rookie class has been one of the most intriguing storylines this season. With names like Tyler Shough, Spencer Rattler, Jonas Sanker, Kelvin Banks Jr., Juwan Johnson, and Devin Neal, there’s no shortage of potential… or volatility.
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Some have stepped up and seized their moments, while others are still searching for consistency. Here’s a look at which Saints rookies are rising, which are falling, and who’s somewhere in between.
The third-round safety out of Virginia has quietly emerged as one of the Saints’ most dependable young defenders.
Sanker’s athleticism and football IQ have stood out, already notching an interception, multiple pass breakups, and a solid tackle count through the first half of the season, per CBS. His instincts in zone coverage and willingness to tackle in space give the Saints’ secondary a spark they’ve been missing.
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With more snaps each week, Sanker looks like a foundational piece for the defense.
Rattler’s rookie season has taken a disappointing turn.
After a rough stretch where turnovers mounted and the Saints’ offense stalled, the team made the call to bench him. Reports per The Sun pointed to accuracy struggles and predictable target tendencies, particularly over-targeting Chris Olave which had limited the offense’s rhythm.
The potential is still there, but Rattler’s confidence and consistency have clearly wavered. His challenge now is to reset and regain trust within the locker room.
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After an electric start that saw him average over nine targets and fifty yards per game through the first three weeks, Johnson’s production has cratered.
The return of Foster Moreau and Taysom Hill cut into his snap share, dropping from 90% to as low as 71% by Week 6, per PFSN, Spencer Rattler’s inconsistent passing made matters worse.
Johnson’s receiving volume dried up as the Saints shifted toward heavier offensive packages and a run-heavy approach.
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Tyler Shough’s promotion has helped slightly, with more even distribution of targets and a few flashes of Johnson’s old rhythm returning, but the numbers are still far from where they started.
For now, Juwan Johnson’s usage and fantasy value are trending down despite clear athletic upside.
Tyler Shough’s name might surprise here, but his rapid promotion to starting QB for the Saints has loaded pressure on a rookie in a difficult situation.
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When the Saints benched Spencer Rattler following a 1–7 start, Shough was thrust into the starting role under difficult circumstances.
The rookie quarterback’s debut was rough statistically, according to the NFL, Shough completed 17-of-30 passes for 128 yards and an interception, but his pocket presence and decisiveness hinted at potential.
Analysts have noted his quicker release and willingness to take downfield shots compared to Spencer Rattler, which could open up the Saints’ offense as he settles in.
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Shough isn’t trending up or down yet, just finding his footing.
Selected in the sixth round of the 2025 draft, Neal entered the season with excitement around his potential at running back.
But so far, Neal has not shown the kind of impact expected from his draft buzz.
Limited touches and fewer meaningful contributions than hoped place him on the falling list for now.
The opportunity remains, but the performance hasn’t matched the hype.
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Lastly, we’ll wrap things up on a good note with another rising rookie.
Kelvin Banks Jr., the top-10 pick out of Texas, has quickly validated the Saints’ investment, and more early indications suggest it may pay off.
Banks was a skilled college player (winning the Outland Trophy, for example) and the expectations for him have been high. His balance, strength, and awareness continue to improve each week, giving New Orleans a cornerstone to build around for years to come.
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In a season where the offense has been inconsistent, Banks’ relative quiet in the trenches and signs of steady improvement are encouraging. If he develops as expected, he could anchor the line for years.