Things went from bad to worse for the New Orleans Saints in Week 8 of the 2025 NFL season. They rode a two-game losing streak into Sunday's NFC South matchup, and they got blown out by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 23-3.
While the game was, rightfully, highlighted by a potentially permanent shift from Spencer Rattler under center to rookie Tyler Shough, plenty else transpired. The pass-catching trio of Rashid Shaheed, Chris Olave and Juwan Johnson showed up, and several other players flashed.
New Orleans' defense also played a respectable game, albeit against a shorthanded Bucs team, but they got simply worn out by the game's end. One player, in particular, however, dispelled any notions that his offseason contract extension was a waste of money: defensive end Chase Young.
Saints' hefty Chase Young contract suddenly looks like money well spent
After signing a one-year prove-it deal with the Saints last offseason, Young had a solid campaign in New Orleans, recording 5.5 sacks, 8 tackles for loss and 21 quarterback hits. But fans and those around the league were shellshocked when he signed a three-year, $51 million deal in March.
This was seen as a risky venture for general manager Mickey Loomis, and rightfully so. Negative thinkers about this contract were vindicated when Young missed the first five weeks of the season due to injury, then failed to make an impact in his Week 6 return.
Last week, however, Young showed signs of his old self, recording three tackles, 0.5 sacks, two passes defended and three quarterback hits. To further make this once-criticized investment look like genius, Young had another stellar showing against Tampa Bay.
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On Sunday, Young recorded 4 tackles, 1.5 sacks, a tackle for loss, a pass defended, two quarterback hits, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery. Simply put, the $17 million-per-year man was everywhere for the Saints' defense.
Of course, it wasn't enough to completely keep Baker Mayfield and Co. at bay, but it was easily enough to get fans in New Orleans and those around the NFL to get off the Saints' back about their decision to extend Young.
It will take more than two great performances for Young to fully live up to his billing, but the last two weeks have been a tremendous start. In what is already a lost season, it's good to have a handful of silver linings, and Young is certainly one.