Drew Brees Officially Announces His Retirement from NFL

Drew Brees with the New Orleans Saints in 2017
Drew Brees with the New Orleans Saints in 2017. Photo by Brad Smith/ISI/REX/Shutterstock (9147190w)

In a widely anticipated move, quarterback Drew Brees has announced his retirement from the NFL. Brees, who played 20 seasons in the league with the San Diego Chargers and New Orleans Saints, broke the news on his official Instagram profile.

The announcement included a clip of Brees’ kids—Baylen, Bowen, Callen, and Rylen—who were overjoyed that their dad will spend more time at home.

Brees also added a lengthy caption in which he delivered an emotional goodbye to the Saints organization.

“I am only retiring from playing football, I am not retiring from New Orleans,” Brees added. “This is not goodbye, rather a new beginning. Now my real life’s work begins!”

Drew Brees started his career as the Chargers’ second-round pick in 2001. He spent five years in San Diego, four of which he was a starter, before hitting free agency. The Chargers came in with a low offer to keep him and already had Philip Rivers on the roster, so Brees decided to sign with the Saints.

In New Orleans, Brees established himself as one of the best quarterbacks to ever play the game. He led the Saints to a Super Bowl XLIV win while winning numerous individual accolades and honors, including 12 Pro Bowl nods and five All-Pro selections.

Brees also set several NFL records in a Saints jersey, including most career passing yards (80,358), most career passing completions (7,142), and highest career completion percentage (67.69).

Despite retiring, Brees will remain involved in football, having already agreed to serve as an analyst for NBC.

Brees’ departure leaves a big void on the quarterback position for the New Orleans Saints. The franchise is expected to turn to either Taysom Hill or Jameis Winston as a starter for 2021, although it wouldn’t be surprising if they make a run for another signal-caller either via draft or free agency.

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