Locked On Saints - Daily Podcast On The New Orleans Saints

Brandon Staley’s defense demands attention as the New Orleans Saints usher in a new era, with playmakers like Chase Young and Kaden Elliss poised to energize the lineup. After key offseason changes and the departure of veterans like Demario Davis and Alontae Taylor, expectations are high for rising leaders such as Kool-Aid McKinstry, who’s already stepping up both on and off the field. The secondary’s evolution, driven by McKinstry’s vocal leadership and Quincy Riley’s growth, could make the Saints one of the NFC’s most disruptive units.

 

As defensive roles shift and young talent embraces leadership, all eyes are on training camp battles at edge rusher, the emergence of Jonas Sanker in the slot and how this re-energized squad adapts to the rise of multi-tight end offensive schemes.

 

00:21 Brandon Staley Defense Buy-In?

10:25 Battling NFL Nickel Tax

19:51 Kool-Aid McKinstry's Leadership

26:20 Edge Rusher Energy

 

Stephen Lew-Imagn Images

 

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LouisianaSports.Net's Ross Jackson hosts the Locked On Saints Podcast keeping the Who Dat Nation up-to-date with everything you need to know about your beloved New Orleans Saints.

 

And follow Ross on Twitter, where he’ll be sharing the latest news about the New Orleans Saints and talking with fans.

On Twitter:  https://twitter.com/RossJacksonNOLA

 

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If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

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BECOME A LOCKED ON SAINTS ALL-ACCESS MEMBER: https://lockedonsaints.supercast.com/

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LouisianaSports.Net's Ross Jackson hosts the Locked On Saints Podcast keeping the Who Dat Nation up-to-date with everything you need to know about your beloved New Orleans Saints.

And follow Ross on Twitter, where he’ll be sharing the latest news about the New Orleans Saints and talking with fans.
On Twitter: https://twitter.com/RossJacksonNOLA

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The New Orleans Saints defense may have lost veteran names like Demario Davis and Cameron Jordan (for now), but their playmaking spirit remains electric. From Isaiah Stalbird's impressive interception to the relentless coverage by Martin Emerson Jr. and Kool-Aid McKinstry, Wednesday’s OTA practice showcased a unit forcing quarterbacks Tyler Shough and Spencer Rattler out of rhythm and onto the run.

 

Travis Etienne Jr. continues to flash as the dynamic weapon New Orleans has needed in the backfield, showing home-run potential with explosive runs behind an upgraded offensive front. With key receivers Chris Olave and Jordyn Tyson sidelined, Trey Palmer stepped up, adding intrigue to the wide receiver competition. As emerging leaders like Chase Young and Justin Reid set the tone of leadership.

 

00:24 Defense Shows Out At Final OTA

10:24 Travis Etienne Jr. Set For Major Impact

19:56 Three Standouts

26:21 Position Battle Updates

 

Brett Davis, Stephen Lew, Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

 

BECOME A LOCKED ON SAINTS ALL-ACCESS MEMBER: https://lockedonsaints.supercast.com/

 

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LouisianaSports.Net's Ross Jackson hosts the Locked On Saints Podcast keeping the Who Dat Nation up-to-date with everything you need to know about your beloved New Orleans Saints.

 

And follow Ross on Twitter, where he’ll be sharing the latest news about the New Orleans Saints and talking with fans.

On Twitter:  https://twitter.com/RossJacksonNOLA

 

Everydayer Club

If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

FanDuel

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. From the opening whistle to the final kick, Let There Be Goals on FanDuel. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started now.

 

Square

If you’re starting a business, or running one that deserves better tools, Square helps you sell, manage, and grow without slowing down. Right now, you can get up to $200 off Square hardware at https://square.com/go/LockedOnNFL.

 

Indeed

Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast.

 

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

BECOME A LOCKED ON SAINTS ALL-ACCESS MEMBER: https://lockedonsaints.supercast.com/

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LouisianaSports.Net's Ross Jackson hosts the Locked On Saints Podcast keeping the Who Dat Nation up-to-date with everything you need to know about your beloved New Orleans Saints.

And follow Ross on Twitter, where he’ll be sharing the latest news about the New Orleans Saints and talking with fans.
On Twitter: https://twitter.com/RossJacksonNOLA

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The latest episode covers the end of New Orleans Saints OTAs, highlighting the defense’s impressive performance, particularly in seven-on-seven and team drills, with emerging leaders like Kool-Aid McKinstry and standout plays in the secondary. The discussion addresses Chris Olave’s continued absence due to his recovery from a blood clot, reassuring fans that the team is focused on caution and health, not contract issues. The crew also dives into position group evaluations—praising the depth and strength of the safety and running back units—and previews Travis Etienne Jr.’s expected impact on the revamped run game. Overall, the episode captures a positive team atmosphere, emphasizing camaraderie, accountability, and encouraging signs as the Saints head toward training camp.

 

BECOME A LOCKED ON SAINTS ALL-ACCESS MEMBER: https://lockedonsaints.supercast.com/

 

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And follow the squad on Twitter for the most up-to-date news and discussion surrounding the New Orleans Saints

Dylan Sanders: https://twitter.com/DillySanders

Lance Moore: https://twitter.com/LanceMoore16

Ross Jackson:  https://twitter.com/RossJacksonNOLA

John Hendrix: https://twitter.com/JohnJHendrix

Darrion Gray: https://twitter.com/southexclusives

 

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If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

 

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FanDuel

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. From the opening whistle to the final kick, Let There Be Goals on FanDuel. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started now.  

 

Square

If you’re starting a business, or running one that deserves better tools, Square helps you sell, manage, and grow without slowing down. Right now, you can get up to $200 off Square hardware at https://square.com/go/LockedOnNFL.

 

Indeed

Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast.

 

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

BECOME A LOCKED ON SAINTS ALL-ACCESS MEMBER: https://lockedonsaints.supercast.com/

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LouisianaSports.Net's Ross Jackson hosts the Locked On Saints Podcast keeping the Who Dat Nation up-to-date with everything you need to know about your beloved New Orleans Saints.

And follow Ross on Twitter, where he’ll be sharing the latest news about the New Orleans Saints and talking with fans.
On Twitter: https://twitter.com/RossJacksonNOLA

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The New Orleans Saints are getting younger without sacrificing their competitive edge, building one of the NFL’s most exciting young cores. With Tyler Shough at quarterback, Chris Olave, Jordyn Tyson, and Travis Etienne Jr. powering the offense, and defensive leaders like Chase Young and Kaden Elliss, New Orleans may be setting a new standard for efficient rebuilding.

 

Intriguing X-factors like Tyree Wilson, Jalen Polk, and Barion Brown could turn potential into impactful production for 2026. As the Saints navigate OTAs and tough roster decisions, questions remain about how best to balance development in their running back room with limited opportunity.

 

00:25 Potential As Best young Core

10:15 X-Factors in 2026

20:01 No Need To Rush Jordyn Tyson

26:20 Early RB Roster Projection

 

Photo credit: Mark J. Rebilas, Steve Roberts, Alan Poizner-Imagn Images

 

BECOME A LOCKED ON SAINTS ALL-ACCESS MEMBER: https://lockedonsaints.supercast.com/

 

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Locked On NFL League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft & More

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LouisianaSports.Net's Ross Jackson hosts the Locked On Saints Podcast keeping the Who Dat Nation up-to-date with everything you need to know about your beloved New Orleans Saints.

 

And follow Ross on Twitter, where he’ll be sharing the latest news about the New Orleans Saints and talking with fans.

On Twitter:  https://twitter.com/RossJacksonNOLA

 

Everydayer Club

If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

FanDuel

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. From the opening whistle to the final kick, Let There Be Goals on FanDuel. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started now.

 

Square

If you’re starting a business, or running one that deserves better tools, Square helps you sell, manage, and grow without slowing down. Right now, you can get up to $200 off Square hardware at https://square.com/go/LockedOnNFL.

 

Indeed

Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast.

 

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

BECOME A LOCKED ON SAINTS ALL-ACCESS MEMBER: https://lockedonsaints.supercast.com/

Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…
🎧https://lockedonpodcasts.com/podcasts/locked-on-saints/

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LouisianaSports.Net's Ross Jackson hosts the Locked On Saints Podcast keeping the Who Dat Nation up-to-date with everything you need to know about your beloved New Orleans Saints.

And follow Ross on Twitter, where he’ll be sharing the latest news about the New Orleans Saints and talking with fans.
On Twitter: https://twitter.com/RossJacksonNOLA

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The New Orleans Saints could finally break through as 2026 playoff contenders. A revitalized offense anchored by Tyler Shough, explosive running back Travis Etienne Jr., and dynamic wideout Jordyn Tyson promises a new era of playmaking. With the additions of David Edwards strengthening the offensive line. Barion Brown aims to solve the Saints' long-standing struggles with yards after catch.

 

On defense, Brandon Staley’s system continues to develop after a promising first year, now featuring Chase Young’s disruptive edge ability and newcomers Jonas Sanker and Caden Ellis. As the Saints deepen their roster and aim for the top 10 in both takeaways and YAC, New Orleans could transition from playoff hopeful to postseason regular.

 

00:22 Saints Could Be Playoff Contenders

10:55 How Barion Brown Can Revive YAC

20:37 Saints' Previous YAC History

26:21 Early Quarterback 53-Projection

 

Photo Credit: Brett Davis, Doug Engle, Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

 

BECOME A LOCKED ON SAINTS ALL-ACCESS MEMBER: https://lockedonsaints.supercast.com/

 

Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…

🎧https://lockedonpodcasts.com/podcasts/locked-on-saints/

 

Locked On NFL League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft & More

🎧https://lockedonpodcasts.com/podcasts/locked-on-nfl/

 

LouisianaSports.Net's Ross Jackson hosts the Locked On Saints Podcast keeping the Who Dat Nation up-to-date with everything you need to know about your beloved New Orleans Saints.

 

And follow Ross on Twitter, where he’ll be sharing the latest news about the New Orleans Saints and talking with fans.

On Twitter:  https://twitter.com/RossJacksonNOLA

 

Everydayer Club

If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

FanDuel

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. From the opening whistle to the final kick, Let There Be Goals on FanDuel. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started now.

 

Square

If you’re starting a business, or running one that deserves better tools, Square helps you sell, manage, and grow without slowing down. Right now, you can get up to $200 off Square hardware at https://square.com/go/LockedOnNFL.

 

Indeed

Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast.

 

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

BECOME A LOCKED ON SAINTS ALL-ACCESS MEMBER: https://lockedonsaints.supercast.com/

Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…
🎧https://lockedonpodcasts.com/podcasts/locked-on-saints/

Locked On NFL League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft & More
🎧https://lockedonpodcasts.com/podcasts/locked-on-nfl/

LouisianaSports.Net's Ross Jackson hosts the Locked On Saints Podcast keeping the Who Dat Nation up-to-date with everything you need to know about your beloved New Orleans Saints.

And follow Ross on Twitter, where he’ll be sharing the latest news about the New Orleans Saints and talking with fans.
On Twitter: https://twitter.com/RossJacksonNOLA

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.