The Saints kicked off Week 1 of the 2025 preseason with a defense-first focus, rotating through backups on the edge as veterans rested. Chris Rumph II started at defensive end after the Saints’ top pass-rushers were held out, and a second-play offsides penalty briefly stalled the drive. New Orleans still forced a punt, thanks to Isaac Yiadom breaking up a pass from Taylor Heinicke on third down. The sequence underscored the Saints’ ongoing evaluation of depth pieces behind Cameron Jordan and Carl Granderson, with Isaiah Foskey in a tight battle for a roster spot.

Rumph II’s early audition is critical for fantasy managers eyeing Saint edge-waxers beyond the obvious anchors. Foskey’s continued development looms large for a pass-rush upside inshallah, particularly in dynasty leagues where cheap, role-based contributors can pay off. The Jets and Chargers previews aside, the Saints must decide who mans the edge when Jordan and Granderson rest—this game was a practical, data-filled test.

On the back end, Isaac Yiadom’s early breakups offered a hopeful note for a secondary eager to prove versatility. Heinicke’s aerial attempts gave the defense a live test, even if the drive produced limited long-term gains. Clean technique and consistent pressure will be the themes as New Orleans uses August to refine its depth and establish a clearer path to the 53-man roster, especially against teams like the Chargers who push the balance of run and pass in preseason contexts.

The Washington Commanders showcased several standout performances in their recent preseason matchup against the New England Patriots, despite a narrow loss. Rookie quarterback Sam Howell exhibited promise, completing a significant portion of his passes and showcasing his ability to read defenses effectively. Howell's connection with receivers like Jahan Dotson and Terry McLaurin was particularly noteworthy, indicating a developing chemistry that could benefit the Commanders' offense moving forward.

Defensively, the Commanders' front showed flashes of resilience, with Chase Young and Montez Sweat making impactful plays. Young's ability to disrupt the opposing backfield was evident, and if he can maintain this level of performance amidst his injury recovery, he could be crucial for the team's defensive success this season. The game also highlighted the team's depth at running back, with Brian Robinson Jr. continuing to impress with his hard-running style, adding to the excitement surrounding the Commanders heading into the regular season.

The New Orleans Saints' defensive line is facing significant scrutiny, ranked at the bottom in Pro Football Focus's latest positional ratings. This comes on the heels of a disappointing season where the team finished 18th in sacks and was marked by one of the league's worst rushing defenses. Analysts predict a further decline in performance for 2025, citing a mix of mediocre run defense and insufficient pressure on opposing quarterbacks.

Despite the presence of high-profile players like Chase Young, Bryan Bresee, and Carl Granderson on the roster, the Saints have struggled to capitalize on their talent. As they prepare for the upcoming season, the organization must address these critical issues to enhance their defensive capabilities and improve their overall standing.

The New Orleans Saints are gearing up for their 2025 regular season with a significant roster change, notably welcoming Kellen Moore as their new head coach. As the team prepares for its opener against the Arizona Cardinals, the spotlight falls on Chase Young, the team's current edge rusher who dons the number 99. Young steps into a legacy where notable players like Norman Hand and Tony Elliott previously excelled, making the number a symbol of defensive strength. Hand, often remembered for his ability to disrupt opposing offenses, had notable stats during his tenure, while Elliott's contributions to the Saints' success during the 80s cannot be understated.

Throughout history, several players have etched their names in Saints lore while wearing the number 99, and Young aims to continue that tradition. Defensive players have historically impacted the game's outcome, and with Young's skill set, he is poised to make an immediate effect on the Saints' defensive strategies. Young's journey in New Orleans is just beginning, and fans are eager to see how he will carry forward the legacy of those who wore 99 before him.