Jonas Sanker
Getty
Jonas Sanker has put on a show throughout his rookie offseason
The New Orleans Saints have seen quick development out of safety Jonas Sanker, who could be a difference-maker this season. In a crowded position group, Sanker has quietly been proving he deserves attention.
Playing alongside Justin Reid and Julian Blackmon, the rookie is hoping to see action at safety in the regular season. Coming out as a third-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, Sanker has been surpassing expectations.
Coming out of college, Sanker showcased that he can be a playmaker in the defensive backfield. With the Virginia Cavaliers, he had two interceptions, 17 passes defended, four forced fumbles and five fumble recoveries. The rookie also totaled 273 tackles, adding 14 tackles for loss and two sacks in four seasons.
At 22 years old, Sanker has turned heads throughout training camp and the preseason. Even veteran players like Demario Davis have been amazed by how the rookie has begun his career in the NFL.
“I think Sanker at safety has played some really good football,” Davis said. “He really jumps off the tape.”
Sanker Did All the Right Things This Offseason
The entire Saints organization has seen Jonas Sanker’s abilities on full display throughout the past few months. Head coach Kellen Moore has loved what he’s seen from the rookie, even using him as an example for other players.
“[Sanker] had a lot of clips in the team meeting,” Moore said during a press conference on Aug. 19. “His playstyle, his effort, block destruction, meeting the ball at the point of attack, making some plays in the passing game. He was on that thing a ton. He’s earned those opportunities, and we expect him to keep growing.”
Preseason games were no different for the 22-year-old, playing well in all three of the Saints’ contests. Sanker got a good chunk of playing time, with 151 total snaps. He even got to showcase his big-play ability, intercepting a ball in Week 2.
Over the course of the preseason, Sanker played all over the field. His versatile skill set was on full display, playing 83 snaps at free safety, 48 in the box, and 20 from the slot. The rookie walked away with 15 total tackles and zero missed tackles.
Sanker Has Been a Sponge
As a rookie, Jonas Sanker knows he has plenty to still learn to be the best version of himself. Learning from his veteran teammates has made a huge difference. Gaining more of an understanding of the NFL level has only helped boost the young safety’s confidence.
“I’ve kind of just been taking all of the information in and just trying to find at least one thing to get better at every day,” Sanker said. “Having that approach every day has ultimately helped me [get] on the field, and just play fast and play at my speed. Finding ways to continue to grow and get better is kind of just the story of my life right now.”
Sanker has made a name for himself during the offseason, but he knows the regular season is a different level. With all he’s learned, the rookie could prove to be a key part of the Saints’ defense earlier than previously expected.
“I’m definitely excited,” Sanker said. “I’m looking forward to seeing that stadium fully packed out. I’ve heard a lot of great things about it and the fan base here. I’m just excited to get out there, make plays and run around, fly around and be me.”