Drew Brees, one of the most prolific quarterbacks in NFL history, has officially become eligible for induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Following his retirement in 2020, Brees has now reached the five-year mark required for consideration, and his name appeared on the Hall of Fame ballot for the first time last week.
Joining Brees on the 2025 ballot are fellow quarterback Philip Rivers, wide receivers Larry Fitzgerald and Julian Edelman, and running back Frank Gore—each a standout in their own right. But Brees’s résumé stands out among the elite.
🏟️ A Glimpse of Canton
Brees attended this year’s Hall of Fame induction ceremony in Canton, Ohio, to support his former Chargers teammate Antonio Gates. Surrounded by legends, Brees reflected on the possibility of joining their ranks.
“Saw a lot of gold jackets walking around that have been inducted, a lot of guys in our generation to be quite honest with you,” Brees said. “Guys that I’ve played with or against through the years. You certainly have an appreciation for what it means to be a hall-of-famer… even to be considered in that class this year is a great honor.”
📊 A Legacy Etched in Records
Brees retired as the NFL’s all-time passing leader with 80,358 yards. He also set a league record with 54 consecutive games throwing a touchdown pass and ranks second in both career touchdown passes (571) and completions (7,142). His impact on the game is undeniable, and his leadership helped transform the New Orleans Saints into perennial contenders.
🌆 From Airport Hilton to Superdome History
Though Brees spent 15 of his 20 NFL seasons in New Orleans, he still vividly remembers his first game in the Superdome. Staying at the Hilton New Orleans Airport, he underestimated the city’s traffic and nearly missed kickoff.
“I leave three hours ahead of time… I’m sitting on I-10 at the Poydras exit, and it’s coming up on two hours before game time,” Brees recalled. “I’m literally stuck.”
He made it just in time, and Saints GM Mickey Loomis greeted him with a calming message: “You’re here. It’s going to be a great night. Just go relax and have fun.”
That night became legendary, marked by Steve Gleason’s iconic blocked punt—a moment that symbolized the rebirth of New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina.
“Maybe the single greatest moment, certainly in the Superdome,” Brees said. “The world was watching… not even with expectations for a team, but to show support and love for what was happening down here.”
💛 A Bond Beyond Football
With the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina approaching, Brees reflected on the deep connection between the Saints and their city.
“The New Orleans Saints needed our community and the Who Dat Nation, and the community needed the New Orleans Saints,” he said. “It was a match made in heaven. We just leaned on one another.”
The Sean Payton–Drew Brees era delivered 15 years of offensive brilliance and the franchise’s first Super Bowl title. Now, as Brees steps closer to football immortality, New Orleans fans are ready to celebrate the legacy of a quarterback who gave everything to his team—and his city.