Saints aim for playoff contention behind Tyler Shough and defensive stability

The New Orleans Saints enter the upcoming season looking to build on a late-year surge that saw the team win five of their final eight games. Quarterback Tyler Shough enters his first full offseason as the projected starter following a 5-4 record in his nine appearances last year. The organization focused on roster depth by adding veteran offensive lineman David Edwards and running back Travis Etienne. Defensively, the team remains under the direction of second-year coordinator Brandon Staley despite the departure of linebacker Demario Davis. Injuries have already impacted the roster, with defensive tackle Bryan Bresee lost for the season and wide receiver Jordyn Tyson expected to miss the first month. The team aims to improve upon last year’s 6-11 finish and challenge for a playoff spot in a division that saw the Carolina Panthers finish atop the standings with an 8-9 record.

• 8:09 PMYahoo Sports — Saints see themselves as contenders in the tepid NFC South thanks to stability at QB and on defense