Chris Rumph II Ready to Make Impact for 2026 Saints

Saints’ New Edge Rusher Set for First NFL Season

New Orleans opens its 2026 campaign on Sunday, Sept. 13, at the Detroit Lions. The 27‑year‑old defender will wear No. 58 as he attempts to crack the lineup. With 58 days until the season opener, Rumph is already viewed as a key depth piece for the Saints’ pass rush.

Early Life, Size and Draft Background

Born in Gainesville, Fla., Rumph stands 6‑ft‑2 and weighs 244 lb, accompanied by a Relative Athletic Score of 5.11. He was selected in the fourth round, 118th overall, by the Los Angeles Chargers in the 2021 draft. The Chargers valued his blend of size and agility, traits that have kept him in the league despite injury setbacks.

College Dominance at Duke

At Duke, Rumph amassed 17.5 sacks, 35 tackles for loss and 125 combined stops in 36 games. He earned freshman All‑American honors from USA Today and was a first‑team All‑State selection in high school. The production positioned him as a potential early‑round prospect before his NFL journey began.

Struggles and Comeback in the NFL

After being drafted by then‑Chargers head coach Brandon Staley, Rumph spent his first three seasons in Los Angeles. Recurring foot issues limited him in 2023 and cut short his 2024 campaign before it started. The injury‑ridden stint left him with modest NFL stats, prompting New Orleans to sign him on a veteran minimum deal in the 2025 offseason.

2025 Saints Role and Production

Last season, Rumph appeared in every game, logging 330 defensive snaps—the most of his career—plus another 351 snaps on special teams. He recorded two sacks, four quarterback hits and 47 tackles, including three tackles for loss, his best overall totals as a pro. Despite not starting any games, his consistent presence provided run‑defensive stability.

Contract Extension and Playground Competition

Impressed by his 2025 effort, the Saints re‑signed Rumph to another one‑year contract at season’s end, giving him a $2 million salary‑cap hit for 2026. The edge‑rush room is crowded, featuring veterans Chase Young, Cameron Jordan and Carl Granderson, plus rookies Tyree Wilson and Anfernee Jennings, and undrafted Michael Heldman. Rumph’s versatility keeps him in the mix as the battle for the remaining spots looms.

Key Stats at a Glance

• Age: 27 (born in Gainesville, Fla.)

• Height/Weight: 6‑ft‑2, 244 lb

• RAS: 5.11

• College: Duke – 17.5 sacks, 35 TFL, 125 tackles

• Drafted: Chargers, 4th round, 118th overall (2021)

• 2026 Salary: $2 million

• 2025 Production: 2 sacks, 4 QB hits, 47 tackles, 3 TFL

With training camp ahead and a revamped pass‑rush landscape, Rumph II is poised to capitalize on his chance to solidify a role for the Saints. Fans will watch his progress as New Orleans looks to improve its defensive front for the upcoming season.