Saints' Bryan Bresee feared to have torn ACL on first day of camp

Saints defensive tackle Bryan Bresee is feared to have torn his ACL during the first practice of training camp on Wednesday, according to reporting from ESPN and NFL Network. The injury occurred during 11-on-11 drills at the Saints' facility in Metairie, where Bresee worked with the first unit.

Bresee, 24, is a 2023 first-round pick who has started 26 games in his NFL career, including 15 starts last season. The Saints recently picked up his 2027 fifth-year option worth $13.9 million. Further testing is underway to confirm the injury, but a torn ACL would sideline him for the entire 2026 season.

The injury carries particular weight given Bresee's medical history. He previously tore his left ACL at the beginning of his 2021 season at Clemson, raising questions about the durability of the knee in question and the trajectory of his career.

The Saints have not yet issued an official statement on Bresee's status. As of the reporting, the team was awaiting the results of imaging to determine next steps, though sources familiar with the injury expect a season-ending placement if the tear is confirmed.

Bresee's absence would represent a significant blow to a Saints defense that was counting on him as a cornerstone of the interior line. The team will need to address depth along the defensive front if Bresee is ruled out for the season.