Khalen Saunders, a talented defensive tackle, has made a name for himself in the NFL with his remarkable athleticism, despite his large frame. Drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in 2019, Saunders has since moved to the New Orleans Saints, where he continues to make headlines in 2024 for his standout plays and growing career.
Known for his speed and agility, Saunders recently grabbed attention with a spectacular interception against his former team, the Chiefs, running the ball back with surprising speed for a player of his size. This play is just one of many examples of how Saunders has solidified his reputation as a versatile and dynamic player in the NFL.
Key Takeaways
- Khalen Saunders is currently a defensive tackle for the New Orleans Saints.
- He gained recognition playing for the Kansas City Chiefs, where he won two Super Bowl rings.
- Saunders is known for his athleticism, including an impressive 5.01-second 40-yard dash despite weighing 324 pounds.
- Recently, Saunders made headlines with a remarkable interception against his former team, showcasing his skill on defense.
Khalen Saunders NFL Journey
Khalen Saunders started his NFL career with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2019 after being selected in the third round of the draft. During his time with the Chiefs, Saunders helped the team secure two Super Bowl victories, showing his dominance on the field. In 2023, Saunders signed a new contract with the New Orleans Saints, where he continues to shine.
One of Saunders’ most notable moments came in 2024 when he intercepted a pass from none other than Patrick Mahomes, his former teammate. This interception showcased not just his defensive skill, but also his unexpected speed as he sprinted for 37 yards with the ball. It was a highlight play that reminded everyone of his versatility and quickness on the field.
Khalen Saunders’ Physical Stats
When you think of a player weighing 324 pounds, speed might not be the first quality that comes to mind. But Khalen Saunders defies expectations. He runs the 40-yard dash in just 5.01 seconds, an impressive feat for a player of his size. Standing 6 feet tall, Saunders combines his physical stature with exceptional athleticism, making him a unique and powerful force in the NFL.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 6 feet |
| Weight | 324 pounds |
| 40-yard dash time | 5.01 seconds |
| Jersey number | 50 (New Orleans Saints) |
| Position | Defensive Tackle |
| NFL Team History | Kansas City Chiefs (2019-2022), New Orleans Saints (2023-present) |
Khalen Saunders’ High School and Early Career
Before making it to the NFL, Khalen Saunders attended Parkway Central High School in Chesterfield, Missouri. There, he excelled in both football and track and field. His athleticism was evident early on as he participated in shot put and discus in track, alongside his football career. This multi-sport background helped shape him into the versatile athlete he is today.
Khalen Saunders Brother – A Unique Family Dynamic
An interesting aspect of Khalen Saunders’ life is the connection he shares with his brother, Kameron Saunders. Kameron is a dancer and backup performer for Taylor Swift on her famous “Eras Tour.” This creates an interesting family dynamic, as Kameron sometimes finds himself cheering against Khalen’s team to support his boss’s favorite team. Despite this, Kameron remains one of Khalen’s biggest supporters, attending games when he can.
Khalen Saunders’ NFL Stats and Achievements
Throughout his career, Khalen Saunders has built an impressive set of stats, particularly for a defensive tackle. While tackles and sacks are part of his job, his ability to surprise with plays like interceptions sets him apart. In addition to winning two Super Bowls with the Kansas City Chiefs, Saunders has racked up numerous tackles, sacks, and other key defensive stats over the years.
| Season | Team | Tackles | Sacks | Interceptions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | New Orleans Saints | 32 | 3.5 | 1 |
| 2022 | Kansas City Chiefs | 40 | 3.0 | 0 |
| Career | Chiefs, Saints | 160 | 10 | 1 |
Khalen Saunders Contract and Future
In 2023, Khalen Saunders signed a three-year contract with the New Orleans Saints. This move allowed him to take on a new role with a different team after his successful stint with the Kansas City Chiefs. With his speed, size, and skill, Saunders is expected to continue making a significant impact on the Saints’ defense.
FAQs
Who is Khalen Saunders?
Khalen Saunders is an NFL defensive tackle currently playing for the New Orleans Saints. He was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in 2019 and won two Super Bowl rings with the team before signing with the Saints in 2023.
What is Khalen Saunders’ latest news in 2024?
Recently in 2024, Khalen Saunders made headlines for his impressive interception against his former team, the Kansas City Chiefs. He ran the ball 37 yards with surprising speed for a defensive tackle, reaching nearly 16 mph.
Who is Khalen Saunders’ brother?
Khalen Saunders’ brother, Kameron Saunders, is a backup dancer for Taylor Swift on her “Eras Tour.” Despite their different careers, Kameron is often seen supporting his brother at NFL games.
What number does Khalen Saunders wear for the New Orleans Saints?
Khalen Saunders wears jersey number 50 for the New Orleans Saints.
How fast is Khalen Saunders?
Khalen Saunders is surprisingly fast for his size. He ran the 40-yard dash in 5.01 seconds, which is remarkable for a player weighing 324 pounds.
What high school did Khalen Saunders attend?
Khalen Saunders attended Parkway Central High School in Chesterfield, Missouri, where he played football and participated in track and field.
What is Khalen Saunders’ weight and height?
Khalen Saunders weighs 324 pounds and stands 6 feet tall.
What is Khalen Saunders’ NFL contract?
In 2023, Khalen Saunders signed a three-year contract with the New Orleans Saints after leaving the Kansas City Chiefs.