The wait is over. New Orleans Saints defensive end Cameron Jordan is back to suit up for another season with the Black and Gold.
It was a long offseason for Jordan, the first he’s spent as a free agent in 15 NFL seasons. But after considerations from his family, teammates and more, the defensive end has a rare chance to finish his career playing for just one team.
Jordan named many players that reached out as he considered his future with one of the most consequential being quarterback Tyler Shough.
“I’ve talked to Shough four or five times this offseason,” Jordan said during his recent media availability. “Pestering the hell out of me, honestly. Talking about when I was signing back, like I didn’t have any other avenues. It’s crazy. I’m overly blessed and excited to be back with the team.”
Shough’s pursuit is a twofold win for New Orleans. The first is that it worked and helped lead to Jordan’s return. The second is that Shough is clearly embracing his role as a cornerstone of the team’s leadership group. In just his second year with the team, he’s making phone calls to help persuade 15-year veterans to return. That’s a good sign for the Saints.
Shough wasn’t the only Saints’ leader to reach out to Jordan as he weighed his options. Much like with tight end Juwan Johnson ahead of the 2025 season, head coach Kellen Moore was central in Jordan’s return.
“It’s overly appreciative when you get a phone call from your head coach like, ‘Hey man, want to respect your space, but at the same time, come on in,’” Jordan recounted. The check ins from his coach had a moving impact as he let out a heavy sigh before continuing. “You love the personal connections that you do have.”
Jordan went on to list a number of additional players, past and present, that he spoke to while weighing his decision. Current players included names like running back Alvin Kamara, defensive tackle Davon Godchaux and cornerback Isaac Yiadom.
Former players brought intrigue because of their eclectic paths. Quarterback Drew Brees and wide receiver Michael Thomas were among the most recognizable players mentioned, but the first name was former Saints linebacker Craig Robertson.
“A driving force, Craig Robertson, somehow, someway,” Jordan said.
While Robertson, Brees, Thomas and another player Jordan named: running back Mark Ingram, all finished their careers with the Saints, other former players that advised Jordan to return did not.
