There may not have been a returning New Orleans Saints player on defense that generated more discussion over the offseason and training camp than edge rusher Chase Young. From strong practices against his teammates to dominant showings during joint practices, Young forced attention his way all throughout camp.
Now that the regular season has begun, he’s lived up to the expectations with a fast and impactful start on the defensive edge.
Young has 1.5 sacks on the season after having a sack-fumble erased on a controversial review reversal in an overtime loss to Detroit, and has been a constant presence in the opposing backfield in both weeks.
Next Gen Stats has Young tied for No. 5 in the NFL with 12 pressures generated on defense, but most importantly, nine of those pressures have come on third downs, tied for most in the NFL.
Young’s ability to affect the passer in key moments has been a source of motivation for the Saints’ defense dating to last season where 23 of his pressures were on third down per Next Gen Stats.
His impact was felt beyond late downs during the 2025 season, but also late in games with his second-half and fourth-quarter pressures influencing his total production.
Last year, Young totaled 32.7% of his pressures in the fourth quarter with a pair of those leading to turnovers. He’s already credited with a turnover forced by pressure through two games this season.
The expectations were high for Young coming into the year, and thus far, he’s made good on them.
