Five Things to Know About Saints Defensive End Chris Rumph II

In the fast-paced world of the NFL, new talents and emerging stars constantly reshape the landscape of the league. One such player worth watching is Chris Rumph II, a defensive end for the New Orleans Saints. Though he may not yet be a household name, Rumph brings a unique blend of pedigree, perseverance, and potential to the Saints’ defensive unit. As the team seeks to revamp its pass rush and fortify its defense, Rumph is poised to make a meaningful impact. Here are five key things to know about Chris Rumph II:

1. Football Runs in His Bloodline

Chris Rumph II is the son of longtime football coach Chris Rumph Sr., who has held numerous high-profile coaching roles at both the collegiate and NFL levels. Rumph Sr. has coached at programs such as Alabama, Florida, and Tennessee, and served as an assistant coach with the Chicago Bears and Minnesota Vikings in the NFL. Growing up in a football household, Rumph II was immersed in the game from a young age, learning not only the physical aspects but also the mental and strategic dimensions. This upbringing gave him a deeper understanding of the game, a trait often visible in his disciplined play and high football IQ.

2. College Star at Duke University

Before entering the NFL, Rumph made a name for himself at Duke University, where he played for the Blue Devils from 2017 to 2020. During his college career, he emerged as one of the most disruptive edge rushers in the ACC. His breakout season came in 2019 when he recorded 13.5 tackles for loss and 6.5 sacks, showcasing his ability to penetrate offensive lines and generate backfield pressure. By the time he declared for the NFL Draft, Rumph had accumulated a total of 17.5 sacks and 33 tackles for loss, earning All-ACC honors and attracting attention from scouts across the league. His time at Duke solidified his reputation as a high-motor defender with natural pass-rushing instincts.

3. Drafted by the Los Angeles Chargers in 2021

Chris Rumph II entered the NFL as a fourth-round pick (118th overall) by the Los Angeles Chargers in the 2021 NFL Draft. While considered a developmental prospect due to his relatively light frame for an edge rusher (around 244 lbs at the time), Rumph brought explosiveness and versatility that fit well within modern hybrid defensive schemes. In his first two seasons with the Chargers, he contributed primarily as a rotational pass rusher and special teams player, recording 3 sacks and 30 total tackles. His performance was marked by flashes of promise and a relentless work ethic, even as he competed for snaps behind established veterans like Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack.

4. A Fresh Start with the New Orleans Saints

In 2024, Rumph found a new opportunity when he was signed by the New Orleans Saints, a franchise historically known for its fierce defenses and passionate fanbase. With the Saints looking to revitalize their pass rush and inject youth into their front seven, Rumph offers the potential to become a core rotational piece or even a starter if he continues to develop. His addition aligns with the Saints’ broader strategy of blending experienced talent with emerging players to maintain defensive consistency. Early impressions from training camp and preseason workouts suggest that Rumph has embraced the opportunity to prove himself in a new system, and coaches have praised his energy, attitude, and adaptability.

5. Known for His Work Ethic and Character

Beyond the stat sheets and highlight reels, one of the most compelling aspects of Chris Rumph II is his unwavering dedication to improvement and his strong character. Coaches and teammates consistently describe him as a “gym rat”—a player who loves to train, studies film diligently, and constantly seeks feedback. His humility and team-first mentality have endeared him to locker rooms at every level. Rumph also maintains a strong presence off the field, with involvement in community initiatives and youth football camps. These qualities not only make him a reliable teammate but also a potential leader as his career progresses.

Conclusion

Chris Rumph II may not yet be a headline-grabber, but he embodies many of the traits that lead to a successful NFL career: a solid football foundation, collegiate production, professional experience, a hunger to grow, and a strong moral compass. As he begins this new chapter with the New Orleans Saints, fans and analysts alike will be watching to see how he evolves in the black and gold. If he continues on his upward trajectory, Rumph could very well become a crucial part of the Saints’ defense for years to come.