Anchoring the Edge: Chase Young On Re-Signing Cameron Jordan, And The 2026 Saints Outlook
Chase Young credits his career resurgence to Cameron Jordan’s mentorship, urging the Saints to retain their veteran defensive anchor to maintain momentum and defensive stability for 2026.
In the transient world of the NFL, "home" is a concept often chased but rarely found. For Chase Young, a player who has navigated the high expectations of being a No. 2 overall pick and the uncertainty of mid-season trades, New Orleans has finally provided that elusive stability.
But as the Saints look toward the 2026 season, the cornerstone of that stability, veteran defensive end Cameron Jordan finds himself in the unfamiliar territory of free agency. For Young, the path forward for the Saints' defense is clear, and it begins with ensuring No. 91 remains in black and gold.
"Cam is a big staple to New Orleans," Young said recently. "He's done a lot for the Saints. So, it's definitely important (to get him back).
" Young’s sentiment isn't just locker room diplomacy; it’s a reflection of the "stamina for greatness" that Jordan has personified for 15 seasons. For a defense that finished the 2025 season ranked 9th in the league, the veteran presence of Jordan and linebacker Demario Davis has been the North Star for younger talents like Young and Carl Granderson. The Mentor-Protégé Dynamic Since arriving in New Orleans in 2024, Chase Young has undergone a career resurgence, posting career highs in sacks (10) and tackles for loss (11) during the 2025 campaign.