Cameron Jordan
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Cameron Jordan
The Los Angeles Chargers have a number of questions to answer before the end of the offseason, and the last edge rushing position could be the biggest one to address. The loss of Odafe Oweh has left a massive hole between both Tuli Tuipolotu and Khalil Mack that must be filled expeditiously. Although he may only be a stopgap replacement for LA, a particular Saints pass rusher could be the solution.
While Cameron Jordan is 36 years of age, many believe that he could still do the job for an LA team that wants to bring back a hometown talent. Another reason for Jordan’s potential appeal is that he has always been the Saints’ most reliable pass rusher even as he ages. Last season was vintage Jordan, as he still posted 10.5 sacks in a down year for the team. That had him ranked thirteenth in the league.
Jordan brings veteran production
His PFF stats are also still exceptional as well. His run defense grade still ranks fourth amongst all qualified edge rushers. And most importantly, he will almost certainly come on the cheap.
When CBS Sports’ Shanna McCarriston and Carter Bahns wrote about Jordan’s potential fit with the Chargers, they discussed how Jordan’s price tag could have massive appeal. “Jordan may not be a long-term solution, but he would be a stopgap option at least who would help the Chargers maintain some of the best financial flexibility in the league. His modest price would also allow this team to spend more heavily on its greatest need: offensive line”, they wrote.
When you take into account the offensive line issues as well, both McCarriston and Bahns make a solid point. The edge rushing problem is alive and well for the Chargers, but the offensive line is glaringly in need of long term help. By acquiring Jordan, the Chargers can still maintain a tight budget while also turning their attention towards the most pressing issues.
Jordan completes the rotation
For the Chargers, the one thing about Jordan they cannot deny is his ability to be part of an elite tiro of talent that the Chargers established last year. For first year defensive coordinator Chris O’Leary, it is paramount that he has the ability to establish that hierarchy. With both Tuipolotu and Mack signed for the long term, bringing in someone like Jordan maintains that veteran presence and brings that production boost that can replace Oweh.
Jordan may have expended a lot of his energy with the Saints, but even a Jordan at 37 years of age could still be seen as a difference maker at the very least. The Chargers have proven to be very frugal this offseason, only addressing a couple of key needs. While some fans may not think of it is exciting, it could end up paying off down the road if the Chargers make the right choices.
With Jordan, he may not have his former appeal, but he could still add a major boost to a championship caliber rotation of pass rushers.