A resurgent Cam Jordan's double-digit sacks fuel a dominant defense, but can his veteran presence and cap-friendly deal solidify the Saints' future success?
The New Orleans Saints are primed for a breakout season in 2026. Much of the breakout revolves around the emergence of star quarterback Tyler Shough, but Shough's late string of wins would not have been possible without the play of his defense.
The defense depended on several players, but defensive lineman Cam Jordan was one of the most impactful of them all. Jordan had a resurgent season of his own looking like his younger self with a double-digit sack season that few if any expected in 2025.
Raunak Bose of The Times of India discussed why signing Jordan to a new contract makes sense for the team financially and for its 2026 on field prospects. Bose wrote the following of the potential move.
"The Saints are expected to have roughly $27-40 million in cap space after roster adjustments. A one-year agreement would allow the team to maintain depth on the defensive line while avoiding long-term financial risk. Jordan would continue working alongside Chase Young and Carl Granderson, giving the unit experience to complement its younger players.
Jordan recorded 47 tackles, including 32 solo, along with 10.5 sacks and two passes defended in 17 games during the 2025 season. He turns 37 in July 2026 but has shown he can still handle a full workload.
His play helped the Saints’ defensive line generate consistent pressure. The group earned Pro Football Focus’ most-improved recognition and posted a top grade in Week 18, supported by Jordan’s 87.1 run-defense grade."
New Orleans Saints defensive end Cameron Jordan (94) sacks New York Jets quarterback Brady Cook (4) during the first half at Caesars Superdome. Matthew Hinton-Imagn ImagesVeteran leadership is certainly invaluable but so is elite production. And while 10.5 sacks may not be viewed as elite league-wide, it certainly is up there for a player as late into his career as Jordan is right now.
The Saints need to get playmakers on offense. They need skill players to help the team score more reliably and consistently. Even so, the team needs to retain as much of its productive defense as possible if it wants to ensure progress in 2026.
New Orleans is not that far from winning the NFC South division. While we expect the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to improve from an 8-9 season this year, the team was edged out by a fellow 8-9 division member in the Carolina Panthers for the NFC South title this season. It's easy to envision either team improving from 8-9, but the Saints will have the advantage of a fourth-place schedule next season.
We'll monitor if the Saints can bring Jordan back for the 2026 season.