Devastating Blow: Saints Rookie 3rd Round pick Vernon Broughton Suffers Season-Ending Hip Injury

The New Orleans Saints received devastating news Monday as rookie defensive tackle Vernon Broughton is expected to miss the remainder of the 2025 NFL season due to a hip injury sustained during Week 2’s loss to the San Francisco 49ers.

According to NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo, the severity of Broughton’s injury didn’t become apparent until well after the game concluded. The third-round draft pick is currently seeking multiple medical opinions to determine whether surgery will be required to address the hip issue.

Broughton’s NFL Debut Cut Short

Broughton made his NFL debut against the 49ers after being a healthy scratch in Week 1. The 24-year-old defensive tackle logged 21 defensive snaps and recorded three tackles in what would ultimately become his final appearance of the season. His performance showed promise for a player making his first professional start.

The Saints selected Broughton with the 71st overall pick in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft, making him a significant investment for the organization’s defensive future. His injury represents a major setback for both the player and the team’s defensive depth.

Impact on Saints’ Defensive Depth

Broughton’s season-ending injury significantly impacts the Saints’ defensive tackle rotation. With Broughton sidelined, the team’s depth at the position will be thoroughly tested. Bryan Bresee and Nathan Shepherd are expected to handle primary responsibilities alongside Davon Godchaux at nose tackle.

The Saints will now look to Khristian Boyd, Jonathan Bullard and Jonah Williams to fill the void. Additionally, the team could consider bringing back injured defensive tackle John Ridgeway, though he won’t be eligible to return from injured reserve until Week 5.  

New Orleans is 0-2 and play Seattle next.