The Jacksonville Jaguars defeated the New Orleans Saints 24-20 at the Caesars Superdome on Saturday in the opening game of the 2026 preseason. The contest occurred following a joint practice held on Thursday where top players from both teams sat out.
Zach Wilson recorded 145 yards and one touchdown pass on 11 of 16 attempts. Reserve quarterback Spencer Rattler completed eight of 11 passes for 42 yards and lost a fumble. Hunter Dekkers finished the game, completing eight of 15 passes for 69 yards and nearly completing a game-winning drive before an incomplete pass in the end zone.
Saints kicker Tanner Brown converted a 49-yard field goal in the second quarter and a 29-yard field goal to end the first half. Incumbent kicker Charlie Smyth missed a 52-yard attempt. Rookie tight end Oscar Delp caught a 1-yard touchdown pass from Wilson, which was set up by a 27-yard reception from Bub Means.
Running back Audric Estime scored the game's first points on a 9-yard run 21 seconds into the game, but left the game in the second quarter after an awkward hit on a reception. Receiver Bub Means recorded four catches for 77 yards, while rookie Barion Brown had four catches for 53 yards.
The Saints defense recorded four total sacks, with edge Michael Heldman accounting for two. Defensive players Jaylan Ford and Jayden Price both recorded interceptions. Price's interception assisted in setting up the touchdown by Delp.
The Saints are scheduled to travel to the Los Angeles area on Monday. They are set to participate in joint practices against the Dallas Cowboys on Tuesday and the Los Angeles Rams on Thursday, followed by a preseason game against the Rams at SoFi Stadium on Saturday.
