New Orleans Saints head coach Kellen Moore confirmed to reporters on Sunday that defensive tackle Bryan Bresee will undergo season ending surgery on a torn ACL.
Bresee injured his knee last week during the first practice of training camp. The injury was non contact. Initial tests indicated a possible ACL tear. The team sought a second opinion before the confirmation.
Moore shared the update after the diagnosis was finalized. Bresee will miss the entire 2026 NFL season while recovering from the procedure.
Bresee joined the Saints as a first round draft pick in 2023 out of Clemson. He has played as a defensive tackle and contributed on the interior defensive line. He previously tore an ACL in his left knee during his college career at Clemson. The latest injury involves the other knee.
The Saints opened training camp with the injury occurring early in team periods. Moore noted at the time that the injury did not look good based on initial results. Further evaluation confirmed the tear.
The Saints will move forward with other players on the defensive line roster during training camp and the preseason. Moore has pointed to opportunities for additional players to step into larger roles.
Bryan Bresee’s absence removes a key piece from the Saints defensive front for the upcoming season. The team continues practices and evaluations as the roster is shaped ahead of the regular season.
The surgery is expected to take place in the near term. Bryan Bresee will begin the recovery process following the operation. The Saints organization has not released a specific timeline for his return beyond the end of the 2026 season.