Jonas Sanker: Everything you need to know

Sanker played in 17 regular-season games during the 2025 campaign, tallying 80 tackles (46 solo) and six passes defended, including two interceptions. The rookie third-rounder was thrust into a starting role after Julian Blackmon sustained a season-ending torn labrum Week 1. Sanker went on to play almost every defensive snap for the remainder of his rookie campaign, finishing fourth on the team in tackles and tied for second in interceptions. The 23-year-old established himself as a key piece in New Orleans' secondary as a rookie, but he may see less playing time in 2026 after Blackmon re-signed a one-year deal to return alongside stalwart strong safety Justin Reid.

Sanker secured six tackles (one solo) and two defensed passes, including an interception, in a 29-6 win over the Jets on Sunday. Sanker's biggest play was a fourth-quarter pickoff that he returned 29 yards to set up a Saints field goal. That was the rookie safety's second career interception, with the first occurring Week 4 versus Buffalo. Sanker has been a starter for the Saints since Week 2 and has amassed 75 tackles and six defensed passes (including the pair of interceptions) in his first NFL campaign.

Sanker (head) has no injury designation ahead of Sunday's matchup against the Buccaneers, Mike Triplett of NewOrleans.Football reports. The rookie safety from Virginia didn't practice Thursday due to a head injury, but following Friday's full session, he'll suit up Sunday. Sanker has appeared in all 12 of the Saints' games this season, recording 60 total tackles and four passes defensed, including one interception. Now fully healthy, he's expected to operate as New Orleans' top free safety in Week 14.