Drew Brees Inducted Into Pro Football Hall of Fame

Saints legend and former QB inducted in first year of eligibility

Feb. 6, 2026 at 8:55am

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New Orleans Saints legendary quarterback Drew Brees was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame on Thursday, being selected in his first year of eligibility. Brees' former head coach Sean Payton congratulated him on the honor, praising Brees' leadership and impact on the franchise.

Why it matters

Brees' induction into the Hall of Fame cements his legacy as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history and a transformative figure for the Saints franchise. His selection in the first year of eligibility underscores the profound impact he had on the league during his 20-year career.

The details

Brees, who retired after the 2020 season, becomes the 11th member of the Saints organization to be enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He joins other Saints legends like Rickey Jackson, William Roaf, Morten Andersen, and Sam Mills. Brees' former head coach Sean Payton praised his leadership and the high bar he set for the team and organization.

  • Drew Brees retired from the NFL after the 2020 season.
  • Brees was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame on Thursday, February 6, 2026.

The players

Drew Brees

Legendary New Orleans Saints quarterback who was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility.

Sean Payton

Former head coach of the New Orleans Saints, who coached Drew Brees during his tenure with the team.

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What they’re saying

“He came when most were leaving...Set a bar so high for all of us....He [led] immediately....He's OUR 1st Ballot HOF QB! Congratulations Drew Brees.”

— Sean Payton, Former Head Coach, New Orleans Saints (Twitter)

“Also, Congratulations to Your wife Brittany, Baylen, Bowen, Callen and Rylen. It was an honor to have coached you.”

— Sean Payton, Former Head Coach, New Orleans Saints (Twitter)

The takeaway

Drew Brees' induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility cements his legacy as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history and a transformative figure for the New Orleans Saints franchise. His selection underscores the profound impact he had on the league during his 20-year career.