Saints Legend Cameron Jordan Weighs Free Agency Options

Jordan discusses leaving New Orleans after 15 seasons on former teammate's podcast

Mar. 17, 2026 at 12:19am

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Longtime New Orleans Saints defensive end Cameron Jordan made a surprise appearance on former teammate Terron Armstead's podcast to discuss his upcoming free agency. After 15 seasons with the Saints, Jordan acknowledged the possibility of playing elsewhere next season, citing a desire to feel valued and potentially higher pay to join a cold-weather team. However, Jordan emphasized his deep connection to New Orleans, where all his children were born and raised, and said he'll continue visiting the city even if he signs with another team.

Why it matters

As one of the most iconic players in Saints history, Jordan's potential departure would be a significant loss for the franchise and the city of New Orleans. His comments on the podcast provide insight into the complex factors he's weighing as he enters free agency for the first time in his career.

The details

Jordan said he stopped by the Saints' team headquarters to clean out his locker "just in case" as rumors swirl about his future. He stressed that he wants to feel valued, both in terms of his role and compensation, noting that it would take a premium for him to join a cold-weather team like Cleveland, Buffalo, or Green Bay. Jordan also acknowledged that he likely has two or three years left in his career, which could limit the number of teams willing to offer him a long-term deal.

  • Jordan made the surprise appearance on Terron Armstead's podcast on March 17, 2026.
  • Jordan is set to become an unrestricted free agent on March 18, 2026.

The players

Cameron Jordan

A 15-year veteran defensive end who has spent his entire NFL career with the New Orleans Saints, establishing himself as one of the franchise's all-time greats.

Terron Armstead

A former offensive tackle for the New Orleans Saints who is now hosting a podcast called "The Set".

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What they’re saying

“There's a set value that I have in my mind, value is to the eye of the beholder at this point. Value means position, rotation, monetary, sure, but if I want to get 12, 13 sacks this next season I need to be in the best position to do so.”

— Cameron Jordan (The Set YouTube show)

“It can't be Cleveland or Buffalo or Green Bay. It could be, there would be a number to get me over there. I won't do it for love of the game.”

— Cameron Jordan (The Set YouTube show)

“So of course I'd love to be in New Orleans. And at the same time, if the cents doesn't make sense, you know, we've got to find our own path. I know what I want to do, what I want to accomplish. And if that doesn't line up that's fine as well. Just because I love the city and I love the organization, it doesn't mean the organization or the city has to love me back.”

— Cameron Jordan (The Set YouTube show)

What’s next

Jordan is set to become an unrestricted free agent on March 18, 2026, when he will be able to sign with any team of his choosing.

The takeaway

Cameron Jordan's comments on Terron Armstead's podcast highlight the difficult decision he faces as a Saints legend entering free agency for the first time. While he has a deep connection to New Orleans, Jordan is seeking the right combination of role, compensation, and team fit to potentially continue his career elsewhere. His departure would be a significant loss for the Saints, but Jordan is prepared to prioritize his own goals and priorities in the next phase of his NFL journey.