Retired Saints QB Drew Brees Shines at Mardi Gras Parade

Brees celebrates Hall of Fame selection by throwing lefthanded at Krewe of Bacchus parade

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Drew Brees, the recently retired New Orleans Saints quarterback, made a special appearance at the Krewe of Bacchus parade during Mardi Gras weekend. Despite no longer being able to throw with his right arm, Brees impressed onlookers by showcasing his left-handed passing skills as he rode with the super krewe, celebrating his upcoming induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026.

Why it matters

Brees is a beloved figure in New Orleans, having led the Saints to a Super Bowl championship and cementing his legacy as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history. His appearance at the iconic Mardi Gras parade was a special moment for both the city and Brees himself, as he reconnected with fans, former teammates, and the community that embraced him throughout his storied career.

The details

During the parade, Brees was seen throwing footballs to the crowd using his left hand, demonstrating his impressive ambidextrous abilities even after retiring from the NFL. The retired quarterback rode with the Krewe of Bacchus, one of the largest and most prestigious Mardi Gras organizations, as a way to celebrate his upcoming induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

  • The Krewe of Bacchus parade took place on Sunday, February 16, 2026, during the Mardi Gras festivities in New Orleans.
  • Brees was selected for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026, which will be officially inducted later that year.

The players

Drew Brees

A recently retired quarterback who played for the New Orleans Saints for 20 seasons, leading the team to a Super Bowl championship and cementing his legacy as one of the greatest players in NFL history.

Krewe of Bacchus

One of the largest and most prestigious Mardi Gras organizations in New Orleans, known for its elaborate floats and celebrity grand marshals.

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What they’re saying

“It was a great moment for a great player who made so many memories with the black and gold.”

— John Sigler, Author (yahoo.com)

What’s next

Brees will be officially inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame later in 2026, cementing his legacy as one of the all-time great quarterbacks in NFL history.

The takeaway

Drew Brees' appearance at the Krewe of Bacchus parade during Mardi Gras was a heartwarming celebration of his illustrious career and the deep connection he has with the city of New Orleans. Even in retirement, Brees continues to be a beloved figure in the community, and his upcoming Hall of Fame induction is a well-deserved honor for one of the greatest players to ever take the field.