98 days until Saint's season opener: Every player to wear No. 98

As the countdown to the New Orleans Saints’ 2025 season opener hits 98 days, fans are reflecting on the players who’ve worn the No. 98 jersey — a number that’s often been associated with grit, toughness, and trench warfare in the Big Easy.

🔙 The Legacy of No. 98 in New Orleans

While No. 98 may not be the flashiest number on the field, it’s one that has been worn by key contributors on the defensive line and beyond — often the unsung heroes who help anchor the Saints' physical identity.

Here’s a look at some of the most notable names to wear No. 98 for the Saints:

🐂 Brian Young (2004–2008)

A key piece of the Saints’ defensive line during the mid-2000s, Young brought leadership and consistency. He later transitioned into a coaching role, continuing to impact the organization behind the scenes.

🛡️ Sedrick Ellis (2008–2012)

The former first-round pick was expected to be a cornerstone for the Saints’ D-line. While his career didn’t fully meet expectations, Ellis was a starter on the 2009 Super Bowl team, making him forever part of Saints history.

💥 Tyrunn Walker (2012–2015)

An undrafted gem out of Tulsa, Walker carved out a rotational role on the Saints’ line and delivered some underrated contributions during a transitional era for the defense.

💣 Sheldon Rankins (wore 98 in practice before switching to 99)

Though better known for No. 99, Rankins briefly sported No. 98 early in his rookie preseason — before establishing himself as a dominant presence in the middle during his prime years in New Orleans.

🔄 Current Roster Status

As of the 2025 offseason, No. 98 remains unassigned, but fans are watching closely to see which young defender or rising star could inherit the number and write the next chapter.

📅 Looking Ahead

With 98 days to go until the Saints return to the Superdome, the spirit of those who wore No. 98 serves as a reminder of the relentless attitude this team brings every season. Whether it’s a defensive anchor or a fresh face, Saints fans know that every jersey number tells a story — and No. 98 has its own legacy to uphold.