2025 is the Final Chance for the Saints’ Veteran Core

As the 2025 NFL season approaches, the New Orleans Saints find themselves at a crossroads.

The team’s core players, who have been the backbone of its identity for years, are now facing the twilight of their careers. With a roster that blends seasoned leaders and emerging talents, the Saints must evaluate whether this season represents their final opportunity to contend before a potential rebuild becomes inevitable.

Cameron Jordan: The Defensive Anchor

Cameron Jordan, a stalwart on the Saints’ defensive line, is entering his 15th season with the team. In 2024, he recorded four sacks and 34 tackles, earning the 2025 Bart Starr Award for his exemplary character on and off the field. Jordan’s leadership and performance have been instrumental in maintaining the team’s defensive prowess. Though his 2024 numbers weren’t his career best, his impact extends beyond the stat sheet. But time waits for no one. At 35, Jordan’s snaps may be more situational this season, and his $16.9 million cap hit puts added pressure on production.

Demario Davis: The Heart of the Defense

Linebacker Demario Davis remains a vital presence in the Saints’ defense. Known for his relentless pursuit and leadership qualities, Davis’ experience is invaluable, especially as the team integrates younger players into key roles. His ability to mentor and guide the next generation will be crucial in maintaining defensive stability. Now 36, Davis remains in remarkable physical condition, defying father time with his sideline-to-sideline speed, tackling efficacy, and ability to quarterback the defense. In 2o24, he posted 105 tackles, three sacks, and a handful of impact plays that reminded fans why he’s been one of the league’s most underrated defenders for over a decade.

Tyrann Mathieu: The Veteran Safety

Safety Tyrann Mathieu brings a wealth of experience and playmaking ability to the Saints’ secondary. His presence provides a stabilizing force in the defensive backfield, offering both leadership and versatility. As younger safeties like Terrell Burgess and Ugo Amadi join the roster, Mathieu’s mentorship will be essential in their development. At 33 years old, he may not be the same physical force he was in his prime, but his instincts and understanding of the game keep him one step ahead.