The most significant moment of Cam Jordan’s comments on Thursday came when he noted that “the film doesn’t lie” in response to a question about whether he believes he could contribute more.
After participating in only 28% of the snaps during last weekend’s defeat to the Philadelphia Eagles, coach Dennis Allen explained that the decreased playing time “boils down to effectiveness.” Jordan expressed that the tape will demonstrate his consistent effort on the field. Nevertheless, Jordan emphasized his acceptance of his new role and made it clear he wasn’t looking to create conflict.
“This is an opportunity to show what a leader I am,” Jordan said, “not just walk it and talk it.
Jordan’s leadership is a key reason the Saints’ coaching staff emphasizes his importance to the franchise, even as his playing time decreases. This season, he has only played 40.3% of snaps, marking the first time in 14 seasons that he hasn’t been the primary player. The Saints have relied on Carl Granderson and Chase Young, who each lead the team with 18 pressures.
Since the NFL began tracking snap data in 2012, Jordan has played fewer than half the snaps in a game only when he was injured or the game was largely decided—until this season, when he is now healthy. He stated, “There’s no entitlement here… Whatever puts us in a winning position. I’m trying to play the rest of my career here.”
Entering the season, there were concerns over Jordan’s performance after finishing the previous year with only two sacks. However, he and team officials attributed this to a severe ankle injury and subsequent surgery. Jordan lost 14 pounds in the offseason to play at a lighter weight.
Through three games this year, Jordan’s performance hasn’t improved, recording only two pressures and matching his tackle total. His pressure rate of 3.7% is the lowest since tracking began in 2018, significantly lower than his 12.8% rate during his career-high of 15½ sacks in 2019. His “get off” speed is also the slowest since at least 2018.
Defensive coordinator Joe Woods stated that Jordan remains “invaluable” and plays a crucial role in keeping the team’s pass rushers fresh. Additionally, the Saints have assigned Jordan a new role, moving him from his typical edge rusher position to occasionally play as a defensive tackle. Currently, 37% of Jordan’s snaps are as a defensive tackle, a shift that surprised him.
Jordan embraced this change, expressing it as “the season of more,” willing to do whatever it takes to improve. Tyrann Mathieu noted that Jordan’s value extends beyond his on-field performance; his leadership and experience are vital for mentoring younger players.
Having been a team captain since 2015, Jordan expressed gratitude for being with the Saints for 14 years, where he built significant personal ties and delivered 117½ sacks over his career. He emphasized his focus on team contributions: “At the end of the day, it’s always, ‘What more can I do for my teammates?’ Embrace your new role and every opportunity you’re given.”
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