March 7, 2026, 11:05 a.m. CT

With the 24th overall choice in the 2011 NFL draft, the New Orleans Saints selected Cameron Jordan, a defensive end out of California. Over the next decade and a half, Jordan would put together a Hall of Fame career. One of the finest players in Saints history, Jordan leads the franchise in sacks, games played, and tackles for loss.

For the last few seasons, Jordan’s numbers have drastically declined. With Brandon Staley taking over as defensive coordinator in 2025, there was some question of what Jordan’s role would be. He’d answer those questions and all concerns in a resounding way.

Cam Jordan Year in ReviewPosition: Defensive endAge: 36Height: 6-feet, 4 inchesWeight: 287 poundsNFL experience: 15 years (with Saints)2025 season: 17 games (17 starts)

It was thought that Jordan might take a secondary role for the Saints in 2025. With Chase Young opening the year on the Physically Unable to Perform list, however, Jordan was in his familiar starting role but an unfamiliar spot of stand-up pass rusher. He’d embrace the opportunity, as the consummate professional he’s always been, but ended up far more productive than anyone could have anticipated. Jordan opened the season with 1.5 sacks against the Cardinals. Even when Young returned in Week 5, Jordan kept a high level of production.

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Jordan added another sack in Week 4. He wouldn’t have another until after the mid-season point, but had several pressures and played the run well over the first half of the year. Over the last eight games, Jordan went on the type of tear that has epitomized his outstanding career.

From Week 10 through the end of the season, Jordan had 8 sacks, 10 QB hits, 15 pressures, and 11 tackles for loss. On the year, he’d have 10.5 sacks, 15 QB hits, and 15 tackles for loss to lead the Saints in all three categories along with 22 QB hits. It was Jordan’s best production since 2021 and marked the seventh time in his career that he had double-digit sacks. He did this in 590 defensive snaps, starting every game for the twelfth time in his career.

Cameron Jordan will hit the open free agent market for the first time. He’ll turn 37 this offseason, but has shown that he still has some high quality football left. There’s a good chance Jordan returns to the Saints, but it would certainly be a huge emotional loss if he doesn’t. More than just a fan favorite, Jordan has 132 sacks, 248 QB hits, and 175 tackles for loss through his remarkable career. New Orleans can certainly still use both his talents and leadership.