The New Orleans Saints didn't technically add a defensive end in the 2026 NFL draft, but the picture has still changed even as veteran Cam Jordan remains unsigned.
New Orleans swung a draft day trade for former No. 7 overall selection Tyree Wilson and has reportedly signed former Patriots edge rusher Anfernee Jennings. Jordan, speaking from his foundation's second annual pickleball tournament in New Orleans, shared his reaction to the news in his typically confident style.
“There’s nobody [added by the Saints] who produced the way I did last year," Jordan said, via a report form NOLA.com, "My talent speaks for itself."
Saints GM Mickey Loomis said prior to the draft that this year's class could potentially impact the future for both Jordan and RB Alvin Kamara, though in the aftermath he said nothing had functionally changed. Jordan has been steadfast in his desire to play a 16th NFL season, but has also been clear that he's looking for a legitimate role on whatever defense he joins. This is the first time Jordan has been a free agent since the Saints drafted him No. 24 overall in 2011.
"If things work out, phenomenal," Jordan continued. "I’ve always said I understand the business side to it, so I’ve never worried about it.”
The longtime Saint is 36 years old, but is coming off a resurgent season with 10.5 sacks and 47 tackles and 15 TFLs as he appeared in all 17 games. This offseason has seen the Saints appear prepared to turn things over from a leadership perspective. LB Demario Davis has already departed to join the Jets and there's at least some level of uncertainty as to whether Kamara will be back. There's yet been any word as to the status of Taysom Hill, who is a free agent and could be a candidate to retire.
The Saints' edge rusher situation will be an interesting one to watch, with that group headlined by Chase Young, who also had his first career double-digit sack season. Carl Granderson and Chris Rumph will also be back after playing rotational roles a year ago.
But it'll be Tyson that represents the biggest wild card. The former Texas Tech standout -- where he was teammates for two seasons with Saints QB Tyler Shough -- never found his footing with the Raiders and produced just 91 tackles, 12 sacks, 16 TFLs and four forced fumbles over his three seasons in the NFL. He has been durable, appearing in 50 of 51 possible games.
Loomis indicated the Saints viewed the addition as a "1-year trial" and did not intend to pick up the 5th year option in his contract. He was acquired along with the No. 219 selection (TJ Hall) in exchange for the No. 150 pick.
We liked him as player coming out," Loomis said. You know, I think more than anything [defensive coordinator Brandon Staley] has a vision for him fitting into our defense and it adds to a group that we like already."
For now, that group does not include Cam Jordan. We'll have to wait and see if that changes.
