Saints’ Chase Young to continue ascension in 2026

By Ross Jackson

One of the most impactful players on the New Orleans Saints defense last year was defensive end Chase Young. A player that was often doubted after his No. 2 overall investment in Washington led to him eventually being traded to the San Francisco 49ers before his rookie contract ended, Young found a new home in New Orleans while notching his first career 10-sack season. 

“I want to be a Saint forever,” Young said after the Saints’ 2025 season finale. “I feel like I have definitely found my home. You feel the love from this organization. My first year in Washington, I never seen the owner. It was different. I never seen our (general manager) for real. I come here and they’re on-field at practice. Talking about this, talking about that. This is a real family-oriented vibe. I’m definitely happy where I am.”

Now that he’s settled in New Orleans in the second year of a three-year deal, the 27-year-old edge rusher has plenty of time left to continue his ascension. If last year was any indication, that means great things for the Saints and their top pass rusher. 

Statistically Speaking

Despite missing the first five games of the season with a pesky calf injury, 2025 was undoubtedly Young’s best season as a pro. 

His 10 sacks weren’t his only career high. He also notched 11 tackles for a loss and tied career bests with four passes defended and three fumbles recovered. In addition, he tallied 15 hits on the quarterback, tying his second-best season mark. His best count (21) was set in 2024, his first season in New Orleans. 

Young did more than feel like a fit in defensive coordinator Brandon Staley‘s defense, he played like one, too. 

A Refined Approach

Although the former Ohio State Buckeye missed the season-opening matchups, he proved himself against some injury narratives by staying on the field consistently once he got there. 

His 12 games with the Saints were packed with action, effort and consistency. He’s appeared in 29 games as a Saint, just five games short of his career total in Washington already. 

He refined his offseason preparation plan and focused on health and longevity. Though there was a hiccup in the process, once he hit the field, he remained there and produced at a high level. 

More Responsibility, More Opportunity

What’s next for Young will be interesting to watch. Last year, he and fellow pass rusher Cameron Jordan combined for 20.5 sacks with Jordan adding 10.5. As of the conclusion of rookie minicamp, Jordan remains a free agent. 

That means one of two things for Young. He steps into an even larger role as the team’s top pressure player, or offenses now have the ability to focus more on neutralizing him. 

In either scenario, it will likely be a welcomed challenge for Young, who would look to meet it head on in an attempt to continue to build on the upward rise he’s currently found himself enjoying. 

With more offensive focus will come the requirement for more tenacity and effort from Young. Which may play directly into his best attributes.