This article was originally published on www.si.com/nfl/saints as Saints Top Star Facing Toughest Battle Of Young NFL Career. The New Orleans Saints took a huge risk on Texas offensive tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. at the top of the first round in the 2025 NFL Draft. The Saints opted for Banks over some top defensive players.

The first thing Staley did as Saints DC was trade for 330-pound nose guard Davon Godchaux, an absolute beast who is a nightmare to handle at the 0 technique. Thoughts and prayers to Niners center Jake Brendel this week.

Derek Carr isn't staying quiet in retirement. After trying his hand at a media gig, he's throwing the football and preparing for a potential comeback:

Carr's decision to retire from football came after being diagnosed with a labral tear in his right shoulder, along with 'significant degenerative changes' to his rotator cuff, back in March, which likely would have held him out for the entirety of the 2025 season.

The model, which simulates every NFL game 10,000 times, is up well over $7,000 for $100 players on top-rated NFL picks since its inception. The model is on a 33-17 run on top-rated picks dating back to 2024. Anybody following its NFL betting picks at sportsbooks and on betting sites could have seen strong returns.

Looking back at a nightmarish history for the New Orleans Saints against the San Francisco 49ers, one of their oldest rivals:

The 49ers are expected to be without starting quarterback Brock Purdy and tight end George Kittle, but they still have some weapons remaining on offense, and their defense is no picnic to deal with either.

New Orleans Saints special teams standout Isaiah Stalbird's inspiring journey to the NFL is one of the feel-good stories of the 2025 roster.