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.

As the countdown to the New Orleans Saints' 2025 season opener continues with just 98 days remaining, a look back at players who have donned the No. 98 jersey reveals a lineage of defensive prowess. From Chris Rumph II, who currently wears the number, to notable past players like Payton Turner and Sheldon Rankins, this number has become synonymous with first-round defensive talent in the franchise’s history.

Notably, Sedrick Ellis was the top pick in 2008 to wear No. 98, establishing a legacy that future players like Rumph II hope to continue. Each player who has worn this jersey not only represents a number but also a commitment to the Saints' defensive line, making it a number to watch as the new season approaches.

Chris Rumph II, now with the New Orleans Saints, is a defensive end known for his past success at Duke where he was a freshman All-American. Despite a promising start, he's faced challenges in the NFL, tallying only 3.0 sacks over his first three seasons with the Chargers, largely due to injuries. At 6-foot-2 and 244 pounds, Rumph's size aligns with the Saints' shift to a more flexible 3-4 defensive scheme under Brandon Staley, who drafted him in 2021. With a salary cap hit of $1.1 million in 2025, his experience could be pivotal as he aims to secure a roster spot and contribute significantly to the Saints' defense.

The New Orleans Saints have signed defensive end Chris Rumph II, a move aimed at bolstering their defensive front as they adapt to Brandon Staley's system. Rumph, a fourth-round pick in 2021 from the Los Angeles Chargers, has experience within Staley's framework, which could prove beneficial. Despite recent foot injuries limiting his playtime to 37 games, he is expected to compete for a rotational position behind established players like Chase Young and Carl Granderson.

This acquisition reflects a broader strategy by the Saints to integrate players familiar with Staley's playbook. Alongside Rumph, they also brought in Jonah Williams, who has experience in interior line play. While neither new addition is slated for a starting role, their presence in the locker room will be valuable for mentoring and understanding unique schematic responsibilities as training camp approaches.

The New Orleans Saints have added edge rusher Chris Rumph II to their roster in a bid to enhance their pass rush. Rumph, who spent his first four years with the Los Angeles Chargers, missed the previous season due to a foot injury but is expected to bring valuable experience to the Saints’ defense.

Rumph's collegiate record at Duke was impressive, showcasing his potential by finishing with 17.5 sacks and earning All-ACC honors. His familiarity with head coach Brandon Staley’s 3-4 defensive scheme could be key in helping the Saints recover from a disappointing season where they struggled to generate sacks.