Saints and Panthers fans have always had a knack for rivalry. It’s more than just a few games each season; it’s an emotional rollercoaster that’s as intense as it is storied. Despite being part of what some consider a weaker NFC South division, the passion and fire behind the matchups only grow stronger. And when you think about the pinnacle of this rivalry, the names that pop up are Cam Jordan and Cam Newton.
Both players kicked off their NFL journeys in the 2011 draft, with Newton making headlines as the No. 1 overall pick for Carolina, while Jordan was selected in the first round by New Orleans. From that moment onward, they became titans on the field, trading blows in thrilling clashes twice each season, as they fought to outshine each other.
Fast forward a decade, and it’s Jordan who’s still rolling strong. Now the all-time sack leader for the Saints with an impressive 121 career sacks, his journey to this milestone started in a memorable way—in fact, it happened at Newton’s expense. It was Week 17 of their rookie season, and the Saints delivered a 45-17 smackdown on the Panthers. That day, Jordan finally got his first NFL sack, taking down Newton in the Superdome after months of effort and thwarted attempts.
While Newton hasn’t suited up since 2022, their paths crossed again recently at Fanatics Fest. Jordan took that opportunity to reminisce about his rookie year and that pivotal first sack, chuckling as he gave Newton a light-hearted jab about it.
Reflecting on that frustrating rookie season, Jordan recalled how he excelled against the run but couldn’t find his way to the quarterback. “I was doing everything right—except getting sacks,” he lamented. Penalties had robbed him of several potential takedowns, but finally, during Week 17, he had his breakthrough moment.
“My rookie year, I only had like one sack,” Jordan shared. “Three sacks were taken back by penalties. I had another two for intentional grounding. I was so hungry for that first one. And you were it! That game in the Dome? I went for you hard—I nailed you right in the chest. I was like, ‘Yes!’ But you just rolled out on me!”
Now, as Cam Jordan faces the twilight of his NFL career, he stands as a pillar for a Saints team striving to regain its footing. Back in the day, the scene looked a lot different with Drew Brees leading the charge; the Saints were a consistent playoff contender, racking up 10 to 11 wins each season like clockwork.
But as he gears up for his 15th year in the league, Jordan’s feeling hopeful amidst the rebuilding effort. The Saints haven’t seen postseason action in four years, and they’re in the thick of restructuring, eager to recapture past glory. There’s an air of optimism with a young team ready to step up, but with a brand-new head coach and uncertainties surrounding quarterback play, the road ahead is anything but clear.
Jordan’s experience and calm presence in this chaotic transition period are invaluable. With his leadership, he serves as the crucial link to the past, guiding this new generation of players as they navigate the uncertainties and strive for a brighter future. It’s a big task, but knowing what’s at stake makes it all the more motivating for him.
Image Source: Cam Jordan @ Instagram
