As the Chicago Bears navigate the latter stages of free agency, it's clear they've lost some key defensive veterans. However, the upcoming draft presents a golden opportunity for GM Ryan Poles to bolster the roster, especially at edge rusher. With Montez Sweat leading the charge, the Bears could benefit from tapping into a deep draft class, though adding a seasoned veteran would be a wise move.
Enter Cameron Jordan, a stalwart with the New Orleans Saints for 15 years. After a strong 10.5-sack season, Jordan's recent comments suggest he's open to continuing his career elsewhere.
At 36, Jordan is clear about his worth: "If you get a 10-sack season, if I was 26, I’d be asking for top dollar," he told TMZ Sports. His focus has always been on being valued rather than chasing the highest paycheck.
While some players might cherish a career spent with one team, Jordan's keen on adding a Super Bowl ring to his resume-a goal that seems distant with the current state of the Saints.
In a candid chat on "The Set" podcast with former teammate Terron Armstead, Jordan expressed openness to returning to the Saints but emphasized having a "set value" for his services. He acknowledged the emotional tug of loyalty, but he's prepared to move on if necessary: "If the cents doesn’t make sense, we gotta find our own path."
Jordan is considering three teams, with the Bears being a logical fit due to his connection with former Saints defensive coordinator Dennis Allen. The Bears are a team on the rise, with potential for deep playoff runs, making them an attractive option.
While the Bears have been cautious with their spending, they have some flexibility in cap space. They should avoid overpaying in this phase of free agency, but Jordan's market value seems to be a sticking point. His insistence on not offering the Saints a discount suggests he's prioritizing business over sentimentality.
Ultimately, while past coaching connections might not heavily influence Jordan's decision, his journey through free agency will be one to watch. Whether he joins the Bears or another team, his next move will be driven by a clear-eyed assessment of his goals and market realities.