New Orleans Saints edge rushers Chase Young and Carl Granderson have been unstoppable in 2026. They’ve even been the reason the defense has been competitive at times. Luckily for defensive coordinator Brandon Staley, the opportunity for another dominant performance is clear against the Carolina Panthers.
The Panthers' starting offensive tackles are 2026 first-round pick Monroe Freeling and veteran Rasheed Walker. Both players have been inconsistent, allowing 10 sacks and 57 pressures. Additionally, they’ve played poorly recently, surrendering seven total sacks in the past three weeks.
This is an advantageous matchup for Young and Granderson. Each player ranks top-five in the NFL for sacks (Young second with eight sacks and Granderson shortly after with 7.5). They should dominate the trenches and wreck the Panthers gameplan. Their performance will determine the outcome of the game.
Chase Young and Carl Granderson must constantly pressure Bryce Young and stop the run.
The Panthers’ offense has dangerous threats, highlighted by Offensive Rookie of the Year Tetairoa McMillan, Jalen Coker, and Chuba Hubbard. The Saints’ secondary has struggled in one-on-one situations, which both McMillan and Coker thrive in. Similarly, the run defense has been pitiful in 2026.
As a result, the Panthers’ offense will demolish New Orleans’ defense if given the time. Pressuring Bryce Young, thus forcing him to make errant decisions, and mitigating their run game are necessary to win.
Young has been amazing when kept clean, passing for 1,513 yards, 11 touchdowns, and only three interceptions, per PFF. He received an impressive passer rating of 108.9 and is a premier quarterback in the NFL when given time to operate.
However, Young's performance significantly drops under pressure. His passer rating falls to 64.2, and his completion percentage plummets from 72.2% to 42.1%. This has plagued his entire career, as he panics and doesn't make smart decisions.
Additionally, the Panthers rely heavily on their run game, which has been formidable this season. Chuba Hubbard leads them with 134 carries for 619 yards and five touchdowns. It’s irrational to expect Chase Young and Granderson to single-handedly shut this down, but they must set an edge and mitigate the risk.
If they can, Bryce Young will be left stranded, which is when they can solely focus on rushing the passer. From there, it’s a golden opportunity as the two edge rushers can dominate the mediocre Panthers’ offensive tackles. Doing so is the key to the Saints’ winning and claiming sole possession of the NFC South title.
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