The Saints are amidst a complete rebuild. This has led to speculation about New Orleans trading their veteran players. One of the players who have received attention is Cameron Jordan. Josh Weil at Pro Football Network proposed a trade that could be beneficial for both sides.
First off, losing Jordan would hurt on the field, but be devastating off it. He is a franchise legend and a community cornerstone. In addition, he is having an outstanding season, with 2.5 sacks and four tackles for loss. Trading him would be a tough decision, and likely one the Saints won’t make. However, every player has a price.
In this proposal, Jordan gets shipped off to the San Francisco 49ers and the Saints get a 2026 third-round pick. He would go to a championship contender and the Saints would get significant draft capital. It would make sense for both sides if New Orleans would be willing to move on.
The capital is great, but the trade is unlikely
Obtaining a third round pick for a 36 year old player is amazing value. Rebuilding wise, it’s a perfect trade. Weil makes some great points on why it would make sense. However, it still seems unlikely the Saints would pull the trigger.
“The Saints are committed to a rebuild, and Kellen Moore still has the boys playing hard, which you must respect.” Weil said, “Look for some veterans to leave New Orleans and for Moore to look to bring in guys who match more with the style he intends to play there.”
Jordan has clearly stated his desire to finish his career in the Big Easy. It’s unlikely the Saints would cross him and send him elsewhere. In addition, he’s still a big contributor defensively. Even if they get draft capital, it’s tough to see them moving on.
This trade would create some financial issues. Trading Jordan would net $17.5 million in dead money according to Over the Cap. This would put the Saints approximately $7.5 million over the salary cap this season. Nothing they couldn’t fix, but still an added complication.
This trade makes sense on paper. They ship off a veteran player and get some draft capital back. However, it’s still unlikely to happen. Cameron Jordan means too much to the team and community to trade, plus it would create some financial restrictions.