With just 96 days until the New Orleans Saints kick off their 2025 season, nostalgia surrounds the storied No. 96 jersey, historically worn by impactful players. Among them, Carl Granderson stands out as a key defensive lineman, transitioning from an undrafted free agent to a vital cog in the Saints' defense. As Brandon Staley steps in as the new defensive coordinator, Granderson's dual role as both a pass rusher and run defender will be crucial in executing Staley's game plan.

The legacy of No. 96 with the Saints features a range of players, including notable names such as Tom Johnson and Alex Brown, each contributing to the team's defensive prowess in their respective eras. This countdown not only highlights past players but also sets the stage for Granderson's anticipated performance in the upcoming season, as fans look forward to witnessing his growth and contributions on the field.

As the countdown to the 2025 NFL season continues, the spotlight shines on Carl Granderson, the New Orleans Saints Player of the Day. The 28-year-old defensive end is gearing up for his seventh season with the Saints, donning the number 96 jersey. His performance last season marked him as one of the few bright spots in a struggling Saints defense, effectively showcasing his talent and potential.

Granderson's journey began at Grant Union High School in Sacramento before he took his game to the University of Wyoming. Over four years, he accumulated impressive stats, including 17.5 sacks and 36 tackles for loss. Despite going undrafted in 2019, his resilience has led him to secure a significant role and a salary cap hit of $6.48 million for the 2025 season. As he continues to grow, his contributions will be crucial for the Saints as they aim to bounce back strong this upcoming season.

Recent rankings from Pro Football Focus highlight Carl Granderson as the New Orleans Saints' premier edge rusher, surpassing even the much-discussed Chase Young. Granderson's consistency in recent seasons has not gone unnoticed, as he has now secured the 22nd spot among the NFL's top edge rushers according to analysts, who emphasize his upward trajectory based on career metrics and film analysis.

Known for his ability to disrupt plays and his tenacity on the field, Granderson has become a foundational piece of the Saints' defensive strategy. His performance is critical as the team looks to enhance its defensive output in the competitive NFC South.

The New Orleans Saints are reportedly considering signing Matthew Judon, an edge rusher who had a lackluster season with the Atlanta Falcons, where he managed only 5.5 sacks. Despite this, various analysts, including Kristopher Knox from Bleacher Report, suggest that Judon could fill the Saints' need for a pass rusher. However, the Saints must evaluate if signing a player who performed below the level of their current roster is worth the investment.

Judon's previous success with the New England Patriots raises questions about his potential return to form at age 33, particularly following an injury that limited his effectiveness last season. The consensus among analysts indicates that the Saints should focus on acquiring a more productive veteran or a promising rookie instead.

The New Orleans Saints are entering the NFL draft with edge rusher as their top priority following a quiet offseason. Despite the re-signing of Chase Young, the team did not make any significant additions to bolster their pass rush. The current rotation of Young, Carl Granderson, and Cameron Jordan has proven insufficient, highlighting the need for additional support. Transitioning to Brandon Staley's defensive scheme and considering Isaiah Foskey as a potential starter raises concern about the depth and consistency of the current roster.

Young and Granderson must deliver more consistent performances, and the absence of a reliable third option could hinder the defensive effectiveness. While the Saints have confidence in their starters, their strategy may involve drafting a young edge rusher to enhance depth and future performance. Rounds two or three could offer viable prospects if they choose to forego a first-round selection. The Saints’ search for a lead rusher remains critical as they prepare for the upcoming season.