A day after suffering a calf injury, New Orleans Saints defensive end Chase Young did not participate in the team's Thursday practice session.
Coach Kellen Moore downplayed the injury after Wednesday's practice, saying Young "just had a little something," but his absence Thursday now creates some doubt about his availability for the Saints' Week 1 opener against the Arizona Cardinals — what would be a huge defensive loss as New Orleans kicks off its 2025 season.
After practice, Young did not offer whether or not he would play, but said he does not consider his injury to be a long-term issue.
The Saints pass rusher signed a big contract extension this offseason, and looked poised to deliver on his promise in 2025. He turned in an impressive training camp under defensive coordinator Brandon Staley, routinely disrupting the Saints' offensive plays.
If Young can't go, it would leave New Orleans with Carl Granderson, Cam Jordan and Chris Rumph at its edge position. Seventh-round rookie Fadil Diggs could also be a candidate to be called up from the practice squad.
The only other change to the injury report Thursday was defensive tackle Khristian Boyd (hand) being upgraded to a full participant. Defensive back Alontae Taylor (groin) and safety Jordan Howden (oblique) continued to be limited, while Trevor Penning (toe) missed practice.
Staff writer Matthew Paras contributed to this report.