New Orleans Saints Shock Fans with Last-Minute Game-Winning Drive—See How It Changes the Playoff Picture

The New Orleans Saints enter Monday Night Football against the Atlanta Falcons with a reshuffled depth chart and a growing buzz around a potential veteran addition. Three key defenders—linebacker Kaden Elliss, EDGE rushers Carl Granderson and Anfernee Jennings—have already been ruled out, while linebacker Pete Werner and tight end Noah Fant are listed as questionable on the final Week 4 injury report. Head coach Kellen Moore must now lean even more on his second-year quarterback Tyler Shough, whose rapid development is the centerpiece of the franchise’s 2026 blueprint. Shough posted a league-best 73.4 percent completion rate inside the red zone through the first three weeks, but red-zone efficiency could still improve with another reliable target. That’s why league insiders are urging New Orleans to pursue six-time Pro Bowl wide receiver Keenan Allen, Moore’s former go-to option during their 2023 season together with the Chargers. Allen’s elite route running and short-area quickness would perfectly complement deep threat Chris Olave and newly acquired running back Travis Etienne Jr., offering Shough a proven “chain-mover” on critical third downs. With nearly $11 million in 2026 cap space still available, general manager Mickey Loomis has financial flexibility to strike before the trade deadline. Meanwhile, the injury-thinned defense will count on rookie cornerback Jayden Price and veteran safety Julian Blackmon to slow down Falcons quarterback Desmond Ridder. Atlanta has allowed 10 sacks in three games, presenting an opportunity for backup pass rushers Payton Turner and Isaiah Foskey to make an impact. Kickoff is set for 8:15 p.m. ET inside the Caesars Superdome, where the Saints will also celebrate the 20th anniversary of their storied 2006 return game. A prime-time victory would move New Orleans to 3-1, maintain early control of the NFC South race and give Loomis even more incentive to finalize an Allen deal before October arrives in earnest.