Day 2 of New Orleans Saints organized team activities (OTAs) brought a crowded media scrum and plenty of talking points, as head coach Kellen Moore and star wide receiver Chris Olave addressed reporters following the practice session on May 28, 2026. While the energy around the team's first voluntary offseason workouts under a new coaching staff remains high, the biggest storylines centered on who wasn't on the field -- and one key rookie who was, but not at full speed.
Moore's Message: Process Over Panic
Moore, coaching his first NFL season as head coach after being hired in January 2026, struck a measured tone when asked about notable absences during the OTAs. Multiple players were not in attendance for the second day of OTAs, a reality common in voluntary workout periods but drawing scrutiny when a new staff is installing its system.
"Every situation is a little different," Moore told reporters. "We're communicating with everybody. The important thing is when guys are here, they're locked in and getting the work. For the guys who aren't here, we stay in contact, we make sure they're staying up on the install, and we'll get them caught up when they're back."
Moore did not single out any player specifically regarding the absences, instead emphasizing the voluntary nature of these early offseason practices, a pattern seen league-wide. His focus remained on the players present, especially along the offensive line and skill positions, where roles are already competitive.
The Saints' roster has been significantly reshaped compared to a year ago. General Manager Mickey Loomis and Moore have aggressively remade the team through free agency and the draft, landing proven players like running back Travis Etienne Jr. and defensive end Chase Young, while adding young talent through the draft. The deep running back group features Alvin Kamara, Etienne, and Kendre Miller, while the wide receiver corps includes Olave, veterans Trey Palmer and Kevin Austin Jr., plus several rookies like Jordyn Tyson aiming to earn snaps.
Olave Speaks: Leadership and New Offense
Chris Olave, entering his fifth NFL season with the Saints, was among the players participating in Wednesday's session. The wide receiver shared his early impressions of the offensive system being installed by Moore and offensive coordinator Doug Nussmeier.
Olave expressed optimism about the new scheme, noting that the terminology and route concepts require adjustment but the overall philosophy aligns with the Saints' goals. "It's different, but in a good way," Olave said. "We're doing a lot of stuff that puts us in position to make plays. It's on us as receivers to learn it fast and execute."
He also reflected on stepping into a leadership role as one of the more experienced receivers. With departures of several familiar faces, Olave is now a clear veteran presence among young players like Bub Means, Ja'Lynn Polk, and a host of rookies. "I've been here long enough now that I can help the younger guys," Olave said. "I know what it takes to be successful in this league, and I'm trying to set that example every day."
Jordyn Tyson Limited: Rookie Development Track
One of the most closely watched developments from Day 2 was the limited participation of rookie wide receiver Jordyn Tyson. The Saints selected Tyson in the fourth round of the 2026 NFL Draft. Expectations are real but measured for the athletic pass-catcher as he adjusts to the professional game's speed and the new playbook.
Moore addressed Tyson's status directly, explaining the rookie's participation is being carefully managed. "Jordyn's doing a great job learning the system," Moore said. "We're being smart with him right now. It's a long offseason, and we want to make sure we're building him up the right way. He got some work today, not full reps, but he's getting the mental reps and he's in the meetings. We like what we see."
Tyson joins a crowded receiver room featuring Olave, Kevin Austin Jr., Ronnie Bell, and other young players. The Saints have also added Devaughn Vele and Bryce Lance through the draft or free agency, making for one of the most intriguing depth battles in training camp. Being limited early in OTAs is typical for rookies as they acclimate and manage workloads.
Quarterback Room Rotation
The Saints showcased their quarterback group with Spencer Rattler, Zach Wilson, and Tyler Shough all taking snaps during the OTAs. Moore has not named a starting quarterback, and competition is expected to extend well into training camp and the preseason.
Rattler, a 2025 fifth-round pick, has drawn positive reviews for his command of the huddle and arm talent. Wilson, a former top-three pick signed in free agency, brings starting experience and motivation. Shough, the 2026 rookie, is a developmental prospect with promising physical tools. Moore's offense is designed to be quarterback-friendly, giving all three opportunities to impress.
Defensive Install Under Staley
While most media attention focused on offense and absences, the defense under new coordinator Brandon Staley is also progressing through its installation. The team has revamped its defensive front with additions like Chase Young and Tyree Wilson, and the secondary blends veterans like Justin Reid and Julian Blackmon with young talent Kool-Aid McKinstry and Martin Emerson Jr.
Staley's scheme is expected to be aggressive and multiple, relying on front-four pressure and mixed coverage in the secondary. OTAs emphasize teaching terminology and alignment, with the contact and full-speed work reserved for training camp.
Looking Ahead
Day 2 of OTAs offered an early glimpse into Kellen Moore's leadership style: patient, process-oriented, and focused on preparation. His approach marks a shift from the more fiery personalities the Saints have employed previously.
Though absences prompted questions, Moore's measured response signals no panic. He understands the NFL offseason is a marathon, with veterans often missing voluntary sessions for personal or contractual reasons. The more intense work lies ahead in mandatory minicamp, training camp, and preseason.
For Chris Olave and the receiver group, the message is clear: mastering the system, building chemistry, and maximizing every rep. For rookies like Jordyn Tyson, a gradual, managed progression remains key.
The Saints will continue OTAs next week before their summer break. Mandatory minicamp is scheduled for mid-June, where full attendance and ramped intensity will further define the team. For now, Moore and his staff are laying the foundation -- one rep, one meeting, one player at a time.