Will the New-Look Saints Surpass Expectations After the 2025 Schedule Drop?
The New Orleans Saints’ 2025 schedule has been released, and with it comes a renewed sense of optimism. After recent years filled with offensive stagnation and middling results, the franchise is entering a new chapter under a completely revamped coaching staff and an exciting rookie quarterback. This year’s schedule is one of the softer slates in the NFL, providing the Saints with a clear opportunity to reset and rise in a weakened NFC South. With Kellen Moore taking over as head coach and Brandon Staley handling the defense, there’s reason to believe this team can overachieve and post a winning record. Add in some promising offseason acquisitions and a talented rookie class, and this Saints squad could be the surprise story of the 2025 season.
Kellen Moore arrives in New Orleans following a productive stint as offensive coordinator for the Philadelphia Eagles. Known for his creativity, balance, and quarterback-friendly schemes, Moore is tasked with unlocking an offense that has struggled since Drew Brees retired. His approach should fit well with the Saints’ personnel, especially with rookie quarterback Tyler Shough, who starred at Louisville and enters the league with a strong arm and solid mobility. Shough may not be a household name yet, but he has the poise and talent to succeed early, especially with Moore tailoring the scheme to his strengths. His development will be one of the most essential elements of the Saints’ season, and early signs suggest the staff is confident in his ability to lead.
On the defensive side, former Chargers head coach Brandon Staley brings his aggressive, analytics-driven philosophy to the Saints. While his tenure in Los Angeles was uneven, Staley remains respected for his defensive mind and innovative personnel use. The Saints' defense still features veteran leadership like Cam Jordan. They hope to have big jumps from guys like Kool-Aid McKinstry, the talented young corner who brings speed and coverage instincts to the secondary, and Chase Young, who steadies the pass rush. McKinstry should help stabilize the secondary alongside Justin Reid, while Young adds a dynamic threat off the edge. With Staley’s scheme, these pieces could lead to a more disruptive and opportunistic defense.
Looking at the schedule, the Saints are positioned to take advantage of numerous favorable matchups. Games against the Giants, Patriots, Broncos, and Titans offer winnable opportunities against teams still figuring out their quarterback situations. Division matchups are equally favorable, with the Panthers and Buccaneers in transition and the Falcons still unproven despite their offseason moves. The Saints also benefit from a well-placed Week 11 bye, giving them time to regroup before a crucial final stretch. If Shough adjusts quickly and the defense creates turnovers, New Orleans could be sitting above .500 before the calendar flips to December.
In a league where quarterback play and coaching matter more than ever, the Saints may have quietly assembled the right formula. Prediction: 10–7, with a strong chance to win the NFC South or at least secure a playoff berth. Kellen Moore’s offensive innovation, Brandon Staley’s defensive leadership, and the promise of rookie quarterback Tyler Shough create a compelling blueprint for success. Combine that with a relatively soft schedule and key defensive reinforcements like Kool-Aid McKinstry and Chase Young, and you’ve got a Saints team ready to turn heads. This could begin a new, exciting chapter in New Orleans football.
