Football
Fantasy football fanatics, assemble! Now that we somewhat got through the NFL chopping block day, it’s time to dive deep into the bayou and peek at some fantasy black & gold from the 2025 New Orleans Saints roster. With new head coach in Kellen Moore and some interesting changes on the offensive side of the ball, the Saints are a team possibly ripe with both opportunity and risk. Here’s my take on who you should be targeting when your draft rolls around.
The Crown Jewel: Alvin Kamara, RB
Let’s not overthink this. Alvin Kamara is, and will continue to be, the most valuable fantasy asset on the Saints’ roster. The man is a PPR machine, a dual threat back who feasts on targets out of the backfield. Even with a new quarterback likely leaning on short passes, Kamara’s role as a top-tier receiving back is secure. He’s finished as an RB1 multiple times and despite the presence of Kendre Miller and rookie Devin Neal, his workload is not likely to be significantly impacted. Draft him with confidence as a reliable RB1 or high-end RB2 who will provide a fantastic floor and a massive ceiling every single week.
The Big-Play Threat: Chris Olave, WR
Chris Olave can be a fantasy force to be reckoned with. The guy has a knack for creating separation and making big plays down the field. However, while his 2024 season was hampered by a concussion, he’s a true WR1 talent. If you are willing to gamble a spot, he could prove to be formidable. With the addition of veteran Brandin Cooks and the continued development of Rashid Shaheed, the Saints’ receiving corps is a dangerous trio. If used properly, Olave could have a breakout season. Kellen Moore will need to find creative ways to get Olave the ball without putting him in the position of agitating another concussion injury. I expect short yard routes with Olave to place him on the leader board for fantasy points this season. Olave may not be your first choice for a main fantasy roster spot, but he definitely should be in your line-up.
The Risky Sleeper: Tyler Shough, QB
This is where things get interesting. Derek Carr’s retirement has opened the door for a new era in New Orleans. While Spencer Rattler is in the mix, the Saints’ decision to spend a second-round pick on Tyler Shough suggests they believe he can eventually be their prime QB. Shough has a big arm and can read defenses, but he’s also known for getting into trouble when pressured. This makes him a high-risk, high-reward pick. He’s likely a late-round flier or a super flex option, but if he can click with the offensive line and his talented pass-catchers, he has the potential to be a fantasy surprise. The gamble becomes risky due to the Saints naming Rattler as the starter. So, you would have to one-arm bandit the roster and believe he would get some field time to gain you some points.
The Sneaky Stash: Rashid Shaheed, WR
Don’t forget about Rashid Shaheed! The speedster is a fantastic downfield threat and a perfect complement to Olave. He’s more than a one-trick pony, and with Moore’s new system, he could see his target share increase. He’s a great bench player to have for bye weeks or as a potential flex starter, especially in high rival games.
The Redemption Player: Brandin Cooks
Cooks is looking to bounce back after a tough 2024 season with the Cowboys, where he had the lowest production of his career—just 26 catches for 259 yards. It was the first time in his 11 seasons he didn’t hit at least 42 catches and 550 yards. I could see a real connection between Cooks and Rattler. Picking him in your draft can be proven beneficial, even if he is predicted to be traded to the Steelers.
The Dart Throw: Juwan Johnson, TE
Juwan Johnson is a solid, if unspectacular, tight end option. He’s a reliable chain-mover who has shown flashes of touchdown-scoring ability. The lack of clarity at the QB position makes him a bit of a question mark, but he’s a viable streaming option or a low-end TE2 for those in deeper leagues. Again, Rattler building field rapport with Johnson will definitely get you some points.
The Defensive Gamble: Saints D/ST
The Saints’ defense has been a roller coaster for fantasy owners. They have some big names, but their overall performance has been inconsistent. With some new faces in the secondary and on the defensive line, they could be a good streaming option for favorable matchups, but they’re not a set-it-and-forget-it unit.
Final Take
The Saints’ 2025 offense is a fascinating fantasy puzzle. While the quarterback situation could still be a big question mark, the playmakers are proven talents. With Rattler starting the season, him being consistent can bring some roster points. Kamara and Olave are your core targets, while Shough and Shaheed offer intriguing upside at a lower cost. If you’re looking for a team with high-ceiling players who could either win you a league or leave you with a few headaches due to having a slew of fresh players to rebuild with, the New Orleans Saints are a great place to take a chance to gamble big and win!
Read More B. Keith Crear III