The New Orleans Saints are a franchise that may need to make some adjustments on the surface. In recent years, though, fans have gotten an inside look on how players feel about their teams, from a unique perspective.
The third year of reports cards are in. The grades pertain to multiple factors of every single team around the NFL. I suppose you could call it the “junior year” of these annual rankings and explanations provided by the NFLPA.
Saints’ NFLPA report card reaction
The Saints’ biggest “fail” came on the food/dining area portion of the report card. They received a measly “D-” there, and it ranked 31st in the NFL.
There could be a good reason for it, though, and a change in the right direction may already be underway. The Saints’ new cafeteria did not open until after these NFLPA surveys were completed.
It is important to note that the Saints’ new cafeteria was being built throughout most of the season and opened in December after the surveys were completed. The expectation is that this score will improve next season, once the players are able to experience it.
The New Orleans Saints rate the taste of their team’s food 6.44 out of 10, a ranking of 29 out of 32.
They rate the freshness of their food 6.68 out of 10, a ranking of 31 out of 32.
The players rate their dining area 5.67 out of 10, ranking it 32 out of 32 NFL team dining areas.
The Saints are one of 2 teams that do not provide three meals a day throughout the week
I’d expect a starkly positive move up for that category on the 2026 grades for the Saints. From videos released by the team, it looks like a great venue for players and coaches. The nutritionist/dietician for the Saints ranked 12th in football, so that could see a positive increase as well with improved facilities for eating.
The highest grade for the Saints was a tie between three categories. Those three received an “A” grade.
Strength Coaches
Team Travel
Ownership
The most notable of that list may be ownership.
Gayle Benson is clearly involved with the team, considering how much she’s seen around the staff and players. She’s always communicated with fans and the media when it comes to anything to do with New Orleans.
Fans may not see ownership as an “A” on the grading scale, but these are from the players for a reason.
We will see how the grades adjust and change next year for the Saints.
