Michael Heldman
Career Summary
Michael Heldman is an edge defender for the New Orleans Saints.
He joined New Orleans in 2026 after a five-year college career at Central Michigan.
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Early Life
Heldman was born in Atlanta, Georgia.
Central Michigan listed his January 2, 2003 birth date.
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High School
Heldman played high-school football for Romeo High School in Michigan.
The Saints listed him as a first-team Division 1 All-State defensive lineman and noted 19 sacks in his 2020 season.
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College Career
Heldman played 53 games with 42 starts at Central Michigan.
He totaled 120 tackles, 34.5 tackles for loss and 19 sacks for the Chippewas. In 2025, he led the team with 16.5 tackles for loss and 10.5 sacks.
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Path to the NFL
Heldman agreed to terms with New Orleans on April 26, 2026.
The Saints recorded the agreement in their 2026 transactions.
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NFL Career
Heldman began his NFL career with New Orleans in 2026.
The Saints roster lists him as a rookie EDGE defender wearing No. 63.
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Career Accomplishments
Heldman was a consensus first-team All-MAC selection and Hero Sports second-team Group of Five All-American in 2025.
He was also a Central Michigan team captain and received Academic All-MAC recognition.
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Playing Style
Heldman's college career featured documented pass-rush production.
Central Michigan's records show that he set its career quarterback-hurry record and that his 2025 total of 10.5 sacks ranked fourth in school single-season history.
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32298, 00-0041329, 1/2/2003, Michael Heldman, Michael, Heldman
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2026 preseason baseline. Position-relative and updated through the site’s weekly review process.