With the NFL trade deadline approaching, the Baltimore Ravens and Detroit Lions are reportedly considering a move for veteran edge rusher Cameron Jordan. A first-round pick in the 2011 NFL Draft, Jordan quickly became one of the league’s top pass rushers, earning eight Pro Bowl selections between 2013 and 2022, along with First-Team All-Pro honors in 2017. He played a central role in Sean Payton’s defense for years, though a Super Bowl win eluded him.
At 35, Jordan’s production has slowed due to age and injuries. After managing just two sacks in 2023, he’s struggled in 2024, recording only nine tackles and one quarterback hit through seven games. Despite this decline, both the Ravens and Lions—desperate for defensive reinforcement—might take a chance on the veteran in hopes of reviving his pass-rushing prowess.
The Detroit Lions, leading the NFC North with a 5-1 record, boast a high-powered offense but showed vulnerability on defense in Week 7, allowing the Minnesota Vikings to score 29 points. With star pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson sidelined, Detroit’s pass rush faltered. Jordan could provide much-needed depth, rotating with Josh Paschal and James Houston to bolster the Lions’ defensive front without taking on a full-time starting role.
The Baltimore Ravens, sitting at 5-2, are primarily driven by their offense, led by MVP-caliber performances from Lamar Jackson and a dominant running game. However, with championship aspirations, they’ll need a more robust defensive presence in the postseason. According to Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated, Baltimore is in the market for an edge rusher, and while Za’Darius Smith might be their top choice, a division rival like the Cleveland Browns is unlikely to trade him within the AFC North. This makes Cameron Jordan a more realistic target for the Ravens. His experience and ability to contribute in a rotational role could make him a valuable asset for Baltimore’s defense as they gear up for a deep playoff run.
Though Jordan may no longer be the dominant force he once was, he could still make a significant impact for teams like the Lions or Ravens, who are aiming to strengthen their rosters ahead of the postseason.
