Another pass rusher has entered the free agent market, providing the Detroit Lions with another viable option to upgrade a position of need.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, New Orleans Saints defensive end Cameron Jordan will not have a new contract in place with New Orleans by next week, which means the eight-time Pro Bowler will become a free agent for the first time in 15 seasons with the Saints.
Jordan, who will be 37 at the start of the 2026 season, has played at least 16 games in each of his career seasons and is coming off a 10. 5 sack season, which included 47 tackles, 15 quarterback hits, and two forced fumbles. The Lions would acquire Jordan by signing him, someone who has historically been healthier than Marcus Davenport while playing more snaps in 2025 (590) than Al-Quadin Muhammad (457).
Jordan will be another potential Hall of Famer available to the Lions, joining Khalil Mack of the Los Angeles Chargers. Jordan has 132. 0 sacks in his career, ranking 17th all-time. Jordan was selected First-Team All-Pro in 2017 and Second-Team the previous two seasons before being included on the NFL’s All-Decade Team for the 2010s.
Will the Lions value Cam Jordan?
Jordan, in the midst of continuing rumors, speculation, and fantasies about the Lions acquiring a top-tier pass rusher such as Maxx Crosby, appears to be more in line with general manager Brad Holmes’ strategy of seeking value rather than aggressively spending big, as the Los Angeles Rams did.
Jordan is in his late 30s and unlikely to command a hefty fee. He sort of confirmed it himself, telling TMZ Sports in February, “If you get a 10-sack season, if I was 26, I’d be demanding top dollar. ” Jordan continued, “I’ve never asked for top dollar. ” All I’ve ever asked for is to be appreciated. “
So, will the Lions appreciate Jordan when free agency arrives? He is a dependable contemporary icon who has proved that he still has something left in the tank. His experience gained throughout his career may assist to unlock a higher level of performance from Aidan Hutchinson, who is already performing at a high standard. Not to mention, head coach Dan Campbell is acquainted with him from his time in New Orleans. All of that, presumably, without emptying the bank or committing the Lions to a long-term contract.
Nonetheless, Jordan’s market must be competitive. Jordan may be hoping to play in the Super Bowl. Despite a 9-8 record, the Lions finished last in the NFC North, implying that their Super Bowl window will be under maintenance for the next year, making an all-in squad like the Rams much more enticing.
Jordan appears to be a great fit for the Lions when it comes to realistic solutions for improving the pass rush. It’s just a question of if the Lions value him enough, and if that feeling is reciprocated.
