Khalen Saunders

Khalen Saunders is a professional NFL player known for his role as a defensive tackle. Born on August 9, 1996, in St. Louis, Missouri, Saunders attended Parkway Central High School, where he first showcased his football talents. He further honed his skills at Western Illinois University, competing in the Missouri Valley Football Conference, before making his leap to professional football. Saunders entered the NFL when he was selected in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft, 84th overall, by the Kansas City Chiefs. Standing at 6 feet tall and weighing 324 pounds, his physicality and technique have made him a formidable presence on the field. Over his career, Saunders has accumulated significant playing experience, entering his sixth season in the NFL by 2024. During the 2024 season, Saunders joined the New Orleans Saints, as indicated by his participation in both the preseason and regular season games for the team. His performance statistics reflect his defensive capabilities, with 2 sacks, 3 tackles for loss, and an impressive 43 combined tackles over 13 regular-season games, of which he started 10. He also demonstrated his versatility and playmaking ability with an interception returned for 37 yards, showcasing his impact on the defense beyond just the traditional metrics. Saunders' early life in Missouri, collegiate career at Western Illinois, and subsequent NFL journey exemplify the path of a dedicated athlete making his mark in professional football. His contributions on the field continue to be a key part of his team's defensive strategies, underlining his importance as a player in the NFL.