The New Orleans Saints failed to agree to terms on a contract with Cameron Jordan. As a result, the long-time Saints defensive end will test free agency for the first time in his career. Adam Schefter was the first to report this news, stating:
"Eight-time Pro-Bowl DE Cameron Jordan, who has spent his 15-year career in New Orleans and had 10.5 sacks last season, will not have a new deal in place with New Orleans by next week and now will hit free agency for the first time in his NFL career, per sources. Jordan will play a 16th NFL season and is said to be open to leaving New Orleans."
Cameron Jordan leaving the Saints could end up happening after all
Simply put - This is sad news for Saints fans. At the same time, however, the Saints are looking toward the future and have to make the right decisions to help them be successful down the road. We don't know what Jordan's asking price is but if it's too much, then New Orleans rightfully shouldn't retain him.
That being said, if Jordan is willing to come back on a deal the Saints can afford, then hopefully they don't hesitate to sign him to said deal. Jordan has spent the entirety of his 15-year career in New Orleans and has been a great leader not just on defense but for the entire team. To see him leave the Saints and join another team would be a punch straight to the guy but sometimes, those are the types of things that have to happen.
The good news is that Jordan hasn't been shy about his praise of quarterback Tyler Shough. If he's being so vocal about Shough and the potential he sees in him, maybe that'd be enough to convince him to return to New Orleans and only wear one uniform for his entire career.
No matter what happens, Jordan will always be a legend to Saints fans and in the city of New Orleans. Here's to hoping a deal can still get worked out to keep him in the black and gold.