Khalen Saunders started for the Saints in Sunday’s preseason clash with the Jaguars, but the day ended with Saunders wearing Jaguars colors after a shock swap that also brings Luke Fortner back to New Orleans. The deal links Saunders to Jacksonville while Fortner returns to the Saints, reshaping the teams’ interior line depth in real time.

The 29-year-old Saunders is listed as DT2 in New Orleans behind Davon Godchaux, but he showed enough last season (43 tackles, 2 sacks, an interception) to earn another chance elsewhere. Fortner, a steady presence since 2022, has appeared in 51 games (34 starts) and will slot in as the Saints’ center after Will Clapp’s season-ending foot injury, giving New Orleans a familiar face at the position.

For Jacksonville, Saunders adds interior run-stopping depth and a veteran presence as they navigate the late stages of preseason roster decisions. The Saints’ return of Fortner completes the swap, signaling a strategic shuffling of depth up front for both teams as they weigh contract years and roster flexibility. The Sunday result feels like a full-speed audition that will influence both clubs’ short-term plans and longer-term depth charts.

The New Orleans Saints are entering a pivotal season with substantial changes to both their roster and coaching staff. As they prepare for the 2025 season, several key questions loom over their defensive positions, particularly in the front seven. The competition for the nose tackle spot is heating up, with Davon Godchaux, Khalen Saunders, and rookie Vernon Broughton among the candidates. Meanwhile, the defensive end positions are crowded, with veterans like Cameron Jordan and newcomers like Chase Young vying for roles in a potentially revamped defense.

Chase Young's shift from defensive end to outside linebacker raises questions about his ability to adapt and capitalize on the new scheme. His success may hinge on the effectiveness of the players ahead of him, particularly those like Jordan, who can create opportunities for pressure. Furthermore, the readiness of Pete Werner to take on a larger role as a linebacker could be crucial for the Saints' defensive stability. These questions will shape the Saints' defensive strategy as they aim to reclaim their position as a formidable force in the league.

The New Orleans Saints are gearing up for the upcoming NFL season, now just 92 days away from their opener against the Arizona Cardinals. A significant addition to their roster is defensive tackle Davon Godchaux, acquired through an offseason trade. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 330 pounds, Godchaux possesses a Relative Athletic Score of 2.52, showcasing his impressive physicality. He steps into the iconic number 92, a jersey previously worn by Tanoh Kpassagnon, signaling a fresh start for the Saints’ run defense.

Godchaux, hailing from Plaquemine, Louisiana, brings value to a Saints defense looking to strengthen their front line. The move is viewed as a strategic effort to address issues in run defense, an area where the Saints have struggled in recent seasons. As the Saints prepare for training camp, expectations will be high for Godchaux to make an impactful contribution on the field.

The New Orleans Saints are looking to reinforce their defensive line in the upcoming draft, with Mason Graham emerging as a potential first-round pick. The Saints have struggled in run defense, posting the lowest PFF grade in a decade. Graham's ability to stop the run and rush the passer would complement Bryan Bresee and Davon Godchaux, creating a formidable trio. While quarterbacks like Jaxson Dart and Shedeur Sanders are gaining traction, the team needs to focus on building a solid defense before developing a young signal-caller.

Graham's versatility allows the Saints to mix up their defensive schemes, addressing a significant weakness in their run defense. Given the current roster construction, investing in a strong defensive front may be wiser than reaching for a quarterback who may not be ready to lead the team to contention. This strategic shift reflects a commitment to long-term success, ensuring a strong foundation for future quarterback acquisitions down the line.