The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results. The New Orleans Saints are essentially doing this by bringing in the exact same pass rushing group that generated little to no pass rush all throughout the 2024 season. The only new addition to this pass rushing unit is 7th round pick Fadil Diggs, who probably won't see many snaps this season.
The worst case scenario for the Saints is a very realistic scenario, the edge defenders are unable to bring down the quarterback just like last season. It's the same group of players, so the hope for improvement comes from the hiring of Brandon Staley and a better finishing rate at the quarterback.
The Saints are considered as one of the worst groups in the NFL at the edge rusher position. An aging Cameron Jordan is the only edge rusher on this roster to ever recorded a double digit sack season, which last happened in 2021. The front office sitting on their hands this offseason was a curious decision that has a wide ranging impact.
Not addressing edge rusher was a head scratching decision
In 2024, the Saints only registered 39 sacks. The Saints added Justin Reid and Davon Godchaux this offseason. They also drafted four defensive players before adding Diggs with their final draft pick. It's a bit confusing to not address a premier position that struggled last year, but everything the Saints have done says they believe in their guys.
The Saints are missing a game wrecker that can get after the quarterback and get the defense off the field on 3rd downs. The Saints hoped Chase Young would be this guy, when they signed him in 2024. His high pressure totals were counteracted by just 5.5 sacks. The pressures were enough for New Orleans to bring Young back on a three-year deal with hopes he can be their game wrecker.
Saints lack of pass rush will negatively effect the other defensive position groups
The NFL has transitioned into a mobile quarterback league, making it more difficult for pass rushers to bring them down, this can lead to explosive plays. The Saints 2025 schedule is stacked with quarterbacks with wheels, Kyler Murray, Josh Allen, and Justin Fields, are a few notable names on the schedule that can hurt you with their mobility for big plays.
The Saints secondary has a big question mark, and this pass rush will make their job even more difficult if they aren't able to get after the quarterback. A lackluster pass rush will hold the secondary responsible covering receivers for an extended period of time, which often results in quarterbacks having all day throw and explosive plays.