Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
By Ross Jackson
It won’t take long for one of the most promising rookies in the New Orleans Saints’ draft class to see his first action as a starter. Following an unfortunate shoulder injury that is expected to sideline starting safety Julian Blackmon for the season, third-round selection Jonas Sanker is set to have the first crack as filling in.
Coaches have lauded Sanker’s versatility and readiness all offseason, and now the former Virginia safety will showcase it Sunday vs. the 49ers after a strong camp.
Jonas Sanker vs Jacksonville Jaguars pic.twitter.com/srBV62UKJQ
— Saints Tape (@SaintsTape) August 18, 2025
“(I’m) just excited,” he said during his media availability on Thursday. (I’ve) just been preparing all summer and had a lot of time to kind of get used to the system and just used to the way they do things. So, really just excited, ready to get rolling.”
Sanker’s versatility should fit well in defensive coordinator Brandon Staley’s scheme. He played all over Virginia’s defense during his four years with the program. He took over 500 snaps at each slot corner, deep safety and playing down in the box. His physical play style is part of what stood out to head coach Kellen Moore.
“Certainly his physicality that he plays with,” Moore said when asked what stands out about the rookie’s play. “But to think he plays it in a manner that is still sound. He’s not reckless. I thought he had a ton of examples through preseason football (that) he showed up in the team meetings every week because of these big, aggressive plays.”
For Sanker, his unique balance of physicality and control come naturally to him, something that should go a long way in elevating the impact he could have as he navigates his first start in the pros.
Jonas Sanker can play. pic.twitter.com/q4FqsYmTHj
— Luke Johnson (@ByLukeJohnson) August 19, 2025
“I don’t know really where it comes from,” he said. “I think that’s just a lifestyle. I’ve had that approach my whole life, really when I tackle any problem, just to do it head-on and full force.”
And that’s what the Saints will hope he does on Sunday, attack this opportunity full force. Not only is it a chance for Sanker to prove that he can be a contributor in the Saints’ defense, but it also offers the team a great chance to see what they have in the young man. Many within the facility believe they have struck gold with the two-time All-ACC safety.
