Former New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees, an NFL legend, has revealed that he could have continued his career for another three years if it weren’t for his weakened right arm. Brees retired after the 2020 season, concluding an impressive 20-year NFL run.
Reflecting on his decision, Brees said, “Honestly, man, if my right arm was still working, I probably would’ve played another three years. My body feels great. My body can play. My right arm can’t. Unfortunately, that’s what kind of forced me to step away. And it was time too.”
Brees continued, “I can drop a dime like 30 yards, left-handed…Unfortunately, you need a little bit more than that to compete at this level. I throw left-handed with the boys, with everything. Anything below my shoulder, below the waist, racket sports, golf, that’s fine.”
The future Hall of Famer’s comments underscore the harsh realities athletes face with aging and injuries, even when their passion and physical fitness remain strong.
It was announced this week that Brees will be inducted into the New Orleans Saints’ Hall of Fame. During the announcement Brees had a chance to speak and shared how his teammates inspired him.
“They inspired me every day,”
Brees gets emotional talking about the impact of his #Saints [1] teammates pic.twitter.com/Ky2YBq2xiT [2]
— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) May 30, 2024 [3]
The date of the induction ceremony is yet to be determined, but will occur during the 2024 NFL season.