When New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees announced his retirement in March 2021 after 20 seasons in the NFL, a legendary career came to a close. A Super Bowl winner, the league's all-time leader in passing yards, and a beacon of hope for the entire Gulf region as it recovered from the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, Brees will long be remembered for his grit, desire and determination. Few can match his achievements, and even fewer the lasting legacy that he leaves behind in the city that he helped transform into the home of football champions.
HEART AND SOUL • Undersized and once overlooked, Drew Brees became a prolific NFL passer who uplifted a region with a Super Bowl title and dozens of unforgettable moments
THE BEGINNING • The competitive spirit for which Drew Brees would become ultimately become known was clearly evident at an early age
THE SAN DIEGO YEARS • The first five seasons of Drew Brees’ NFL career had as many downs as it did ups, but they did lay a foundation for future greatness
INJURY AND INSULT • A torn labrum in his throwing shoulder and subsequent low-ball offer from the Chargers had Drew Brees looking for a new home
REBORN ON THE BAYOU • The quarterback with the repaired shoulder and the city rebuilding from a natural disaster would turn out to be perfect for each other
SUPER SAINTS • A season that began with heartbreak would end in jubilation with Drew Brees and New Orleans claiming football’s ultimate prize
RECORD BREAKER • Two years after being named Super Bowl MVP, Drew Brees turned in a 2011 season that ranks among the best in NFL history
DOWN AND OUT • Three straight losing seasons had Drew Brees and the Saints in unfamiliar territory and searching for answers
BACK ON TOP • Three straight NFC South titles had the Saints and their fans believing that a second Super Bowl title was once again within reach
THE FINAL ACT • Going out with a seventh NFC South title—including a fourth in a row—Drew Brees maintained his high level of play right up to the end
BY THE NUMBERS • Drew Brees left an indelible mark on the NFL record book over 305 career games, including 18 during the postseason
Drew Brees
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