Jul 30, 2025; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Saints linebacker Demario Davis (56) and defensive end Chase Young (99) during training camp at Ochsner Sports Performance Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images

Saints DE Chase Young delivers bold, candid response on his long-term status due to recent injury that could make him miss Week 1

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Adam Holt | Last updated Sep 5, 2025 4:28 PM ET

The New Orleans Saints got a bit of a curveball on the injury front this week, ahead of their season opener against the Arizona Cardinals. For their defense, edge rusher Chase Young, a key piece for Brandon Staley's unit, is dealing with a calf injury.

The ailment is not believed to be serious, and the pass rusher confirmed as much on Thursday afternoon. There is still a chance he misses Week 1, but the long-term outlook is quite positive, according to the veteran.

Chase Young believes he will be healthy soon

Young said, "hell no," when asked if the calf injury is a long-term concern - via Nick Underhill. He believes that he'll be good soon. It is not clear when soon will be, but his strong tone signals that he doesn't think he will miss much time at all for New Orleans. That's a great sign for the defense.

Chase Young didn’t provide specifics on his injury but said “hell no” when asked if it’s a long-term concern. He expects to be good soon.
— Nick Underhill (@nick_underhill) September 4, 2025

If Young does miss Week 1, Carl Granderson and Chris Rumph II will play bigger roles alongside Cameron Jordan. Jordan is entering a season where his usage will be a bit different, and his role for Staley's unit could play to more of his strengths. The practice reports this offseason regarding the vet have been positive, and New Orleans needs him to lead the younger players along the DL.

The absence of Young would certainly be felt most often in the pass rush. He was arguably the most productive pass rusher for the Saints last season, consistently getting pressures on opposes quarterbacks. This year, New Orleans wants the defense to finish those plays with sacks more often.

It remains to be seen what sort of timetable Young is looking at for a return. He did not practice on Thursday, signaling a bit more concern for his availability this weekend against Arizona. Young was limited in practice on Wednesday.

That being said, his confidence also says that he will be back sooner than later. The Saints are definitely hoping that's the case, too.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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