As the New Orleans Saints gear up for the upcoming season, one player stands out as a true cornerstone of the franchise's history. Saints defensive end Cam Jordan, entering his 13th season in the NFL, has proven time and again that he is one of the most important players in team history. While many players tend to decline as they enter their mid-thirties, Jordan continues to play at an incredibly high level, defying age and expectations.
When Jordan was drafted by the Saints in 2011 out of the University of California, he was primarily known for his ability to stop the run. He wasn't initially considered a legitimate pass rusher, but he has since shattered those misconceptions. Today, Jordan owns almost every single New Orleans Saints record as a defensive lineman, including an impressive 150 tackles for loss and the all-time sack record of 115.5, surpassing the legendary Rickey Jackson.
Despite reaching an age where most teams would consider moving on from players, I firmly believe that the Saints should not do that with Cam Jordan. He should be given the opportunity to finish his NFL career as a New Orleans Saint. Other than the legendary quarterback Drew Brees, no one in the modern era has meant more to the Saints organization than Jordan. He has been a consistent force on the field and a true leader in the locker room.
Over the past decade, the Saints have often struggled with their defense. There have been times when the unit couldn't stop traffic with a stop sign. However, in those dark times defensively, one could always rely on Cam Jordan to make a game-changing play or come up with a crucial sack when the team needed it most. His ability to consistently deliver in crucial moments has made him invaluable to the Saints' success.
What sets Jordan apart from many other players is his durability. Throughout his 13-year career, he has only missed two games, a remarkable feat for a defensive end. This level of availability and dependability is rare and speaks volumes about his commitment to his craft and the team.
The Saints have attempted to draft players to serve as Jordan's successors on the defensive line. Players like Marcus Davenport in 2018 and more recently Payton Turner in 2021 were expected to fill his shoes, but none have come close to matching or surpassing Jordan's production. His impact on the field cannot be easily replicated or replaced.
It's not just Jordan's on-field performance that makes him indispensable to the Saints. He is the heart and soul of the team, providing inspiration and leadership to his teammates. Last season, despite facing numerous hardships, such as injuries and missed opportunities, the team rallied together and fought through adversity, in no small part thanks to leaders like Cam Jordan in the locker room.
There are reports indicating that the Saints and Cam Jordan are currently engaged in contract extension talks. I wholeheartedly believe that the Saints should extend Jordan's contract and allow him to remain a Saint for the rest of his career. The work he puts in on the field, combined with his contributions to the community, have proven that he is worth the investment.
Cam Jordan's impact on the New Orleans Saints cannot be overstated. He has consistently performed at a high level, broken records, and served as a leader both on and off the field. As the team moves forward, it is crucial to recognize the tremendous value that Jordan brings to the franchise. The Saints should extend his contract, ensuring that he remains an integral part of their future success.
Comments