Athletes in Action announced today that New Orleans Saints defensive end Cam Jordan has been named the winner of the 2025 Bart Starr Award for his outstanding character, integrity and leadership on and off the football field.
Cam Jordan Honored with 2025 Bart Starr Award for Exemplary Leadership and Character
In a moment that exemplifies the union of athletic excellence and moral integrity, New Orleans Saints defensive end Cam Jordan has been named the recipient of the 2025 Bart Starr Award, presented annually by Athletes in Action. The award honors one NFL player who best exemplifies outstanding character, leadership, and integrity both on and off the field.
Jordan, a perennial Pro Bowler, vocal team leader, and community advocate, becomes the latest in a prestigious line of NFL players to receive the honor, joining the ranks of Peyton Manning, Drew Brees, and Russell Wilson. But for many who have followed his career, both in football and beyond, this recognition feels long overdue.
A Legacy of Leadership
Cam Jordan has been the heart and soul of the New Orleans Saints for over a decade. Drafted in the first round in 2011 out of Cal, Jordan quickly emerged as one of the NFL’s most dominant and consistent pass rushers. With over 115 career sacks and multiple All-Pro selections, his on-field impact is indisputable.
But Jordan’s influence extends far beyond the gridiron. Teammates, coaches, and fans alike speak of his unwavering work ethic, infectious positivity, and unrelenting commitment to his community. Whether mentoring rookies, uplifting teammates in the locker room, or leading fundraising efforts in New Orleans, Jordan has become a beacon of leadership in every aspect of his life.
Saints head coach Dennis Allen praised Jordan’s leadership:
“Cam isn’t just a great player—he’s the ultimate teammate. He’s the kind of leader every team hopes for, the kind of person every city needs.”
The Bart Starr Award: A Rare Distinction
Named after NFL Hall of Fame quarterback Bart Starr—who was revered not just for his football accomplishments but for his humility, faith, and compassion—the award is considered one of the league’s highest honors for character.
Presented by Athletes in Action, the Bart Starr Award is unique in that the recipient is nominated by his peers and voted on by fellow NFL players, a factor that adds significant weight to the accolade.
In announcing Jordan as the 2025 recipient, Athletes in Action stated:
“Cam Jordan’s career has been marked by excellence, but his life has been defined by service, character, and leadership. He is a true reflection of Bart Starr’s legacy.”
A Career of Consistency and Excellence
Cam Jordan has spent his entire NFL career with the New Orleans Saints, becoming the franchise’s all-time leader in sacks and one of its most durable players, rarely missing a game. His longevity is a testament to his physical preparation and mental resilience.
Over the years, Jordan has been selected to the Pro Bowl eight times, and he has consistently ranked among the NFL’s top defensive ends in pressures, sacks, and tackles for loss. But perhaps even more impressive is his ability to remain a stabilizing presence for a team that has gone through multiple changes in coaching staff, roster composition, and quarterback play.
Even in the twilight of his career, Jordan continues to contribute at a high level, serving as both a disruptor on the field and a mentor off it. Defensive linemen young and old routinely credit Jordan with helping them improve, instilling confidence, and holding them to the highest standards.
Community First: Jordan’s Impact Beyond Football
Perhaps the most defining aspect of Cam Jordan’s legacy is his tireless commitment to community service. His efforts have touched lives across New Orleans and beyond.
Since arriving in Louisiana, Jordan has been heavily involved in outreach programs aimed at supporting underserved youth, improving education, and promoting social justice. He has partnered with local schools to fund reading initiatives, provided scholarships to deserving students, and worked with non-profits to provide meals and shelter to the homeless.
During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Jordan launched several initiatives to aid frontline workers and struggling families, including the distribution of PPE, food donations, and financial assistance programs. He also helped raise over $1 million for hurricane relief after Hurricane Ida devastated parts of the Gulf Coast.
Speaking about his commitment to New Orleans, Jordan once said:
“This city gave me everything. It embraced me from the beginning, and I’ve always felt it was my responsibility to give back.”
His annual “Cam’s Champs” program has recognized hundreds of young students who demonstrate strong character and academic achievement. He often shows up personally to surprise honorees, reinforcing the idea that character and kindness matter just as much as athleticism.
Advocating for Social Change
In recent years, Jordan has also emerged as a powerful voice for social justice. He has been outspoken on issues of racial equality, police reform, and voting rights. He’s participated in forums, penned editorials, and used his platform to educate others and inspire civic engagement.
In 2020, Jordan joined forces with fellow players and community leaders in a campaign that successfully registered thousands of Louisiana residents to vote. He has worked alongside local law enforcement to build bridges and increase understanding through community dialogues.
“He’s not afraid to speak truth to power,” said Malcolm Jenkins, former teammate and fellow activist. “But he always does it with love, respect, and a vision for a better future.”
Faith, Family, and Fatherhood
Much like Bart Starr, Cam Jordan is deeply rooted in faith and family. The son of former NFL Pro Bowler Steve Jordan, Cam often credits his upbringing for instilling the values that guide him today.
Jordan and his wife, Nikki, are parents to four children. Despite the demands of football and philanthropy, he makes family time a priority. He has spoken publicly about the importance of being a present father and role model, and his social media often features joyful moments with his kids—dancing, playing games, and sharing laughs.
In accepting the Bart Starr Award, Jordan turned emotional when speaking about his family:
“This award isn’t just mine. It’s for my parents who taught me how to lead with love. It’s for my wife who is my rock. And it’s for my kids—so they know that character is what lasts longer than any stat or trophy.”
Teammates and League Reactions
The announcement of Jordan’s award was met with widespread applause across the NFL. Current and former teammates, opponents, and fans took to social media to congratulate him.
Drew Brees, longtime Saints quarterback and 2020 Bart Starr Award winner, posted:
“Nobody deserves this more than Cam. A true leader, a fierce competitor, and a man of incredible integrity. Proud to have shared the field with you, brother.”
Saints linebacker Demario Davis added:
“I’ve seen Cam lead by example every day. His energy, his compassion, and his commitment to doing the right thing—this award is exactly who he is.”
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell also acknowledged Jordan during the league’s annual honors ceremony:
“Cam Jordan represents everything the NFL aspires to be—tough, principled, and community-minded.”
Looking Ahead: Legacy in the Making
As Cam Jordan continues his remarkable NFL journey, his legacy is already secure. While his Hall of Fame case will be debated based on statistics and accolades, the Bart Starr Award adds an important dimension: the legacy of character.
Jordan is expected to remain a pillar of leadership for the Saints as they transition into a new era. He has expressed interest in coaching, broadcasting, or even pursuing civic leadership roles after football.
“I’m just getting started,” he said with a grin at the award ceremony. “There’s so much more to give. Whether it’s through football or beyond, I’ll always lead with my heart.”
The Final Word
In a league filled with superstars and sensational talent, Cam Jordan stands apart—not just because of what he does on the field, but because of who he is off of it. The 2025 Bart Starr Award is not just an honor. It’s a mirror reflecting what the NFL can be at its best.
Cam Jordan didn’t just earn this award—he embodies it.
And for New Orleans, for the Saints, and for fans of football with heart, that means everything.
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