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The New Orleans Saints are a professional American football team based in New Orleans, Louisiana. The group was founded by John W. Mecom Jr., David Dixon, and the city of New Orleans in 1966. The Saints played their first season in the NFL in 1967 and have been a fixture of the league ever since.
Local businessman Dave Dixon proposed the idea for a professional football team in New Orleans in the 1950s. Dixon believed New Orleans was a prime location for a professional sports team and lobbied hard for the city to be granted an NFL franchise. However, it would be another decade before his dream became a reality.
In 1966, a group of investors led by John W. Mecom Jr. purchased the franchise rights for an NFL team in New Orleans. The team was named the Saints in honor of the city's rich history and association with the Catholic Church.
The Saints' first season in the NFL in 1967 was a difficult one. The team won just three games and finished last in the league's Eastern Division. Despite the disappointing start, the team showed promise and attracted a loyal fan base.
Throughout the 1970s, the Saints struggled to find success on the field. The team went through several coaches and players but failed to make the playoffs. Despite this, the team remained popular in New Orleans and drew large crowds to their home games at Tulane Stadium.
In 1985, the Saints boldly moved by hiring Jim Mora as their head coach. Mora had previously been the head coach of the USFL's Philadelphia/Baltimore Stars, where he won two championships. Mora brought a new level of discipline and professionalism to the Saints, and the team improved.
Under Mora's leadership, the Saints assembled one of the best defenses in NFL history. The linebackers known as the "Dome Patrol" - made up of Rickey Jackson, Sam Mills, Vaughan Johnson, and Pat Swilling - were among the most feared in the league. The Saints also acquired quarterback Bobby Hebert, who led the team to its first playoff appearance in 1987.
Despite the team's success in the late 1980s and early 1990s, they could not win a playoff game. In 1997, the team made a controversial move by trading away Hebert and replacing him with Kerry Collins. Collins struggled in New Orleans, and the team's fortunes declined.
In 1999, the Saints made another bold move by hiring Mike Ditka as their head coach. Ditka, who had won a Super Bowl with the Chicago Bears in 1985, was seen as a charismatic figure who could turn the team around. However, Ditka's tenure in New Orleans was marked by controversy and poor performance. The team struggled to win games and failed to make the playoffs during his three-year tenure.
The Saints began to turn their fortunes around in 2006 by hiring Sean Payton as head coach and acquiring quarterback Drew Brees. Payton, a former assistant coach with the Dallas Cowboys, brought new energy and enthusiasm to the team. Brees, who had previously played for the San Diego Chargers, was one of the league's top quarterbacks and helped lead the Saints to their first-ever Super Bowl victory in 2009.
The Saints' success on the field has been matched by their impact on the city of New Orleans. In 2005, the team's home stadium, the Superdome, was severely damaged by Hurricane Katrina. The Saints were forced to play their home games on the road for the entire 2005 season but returned to the Superdome in 2006 to a
After the founding of the New Orleans Saints in 1966, the team struggled to find success on the field throughout the 1970s and into the early 1980s. This period of the team's history is often called the "Dark Years."
The Saints' lack of success during this time was partly due to a lack of talent and poor coaching. The team went through several coaches and players but failed to make the playoffs during this period.
One of the most memorable moments of the Saints' early years was the team's first-ever game in 1967. The Saints played the Los Angeles Rams before a sold-out crowd at Tulane Stadium. Despite the fans' enthusiasm, the team lost the game 27-13.
Throughout the 1970s, the Saints continued to struggle. The team had several talented players, including quarterback Archie Manning, but could not win consistently. Poor attendance at home games matched the team's lack of success on the field. In 1973, the team had an average attendance of 46,789 fans per game, the lowest in the NFL.
In 1980, the Saints made a controversial move by drafting running back George Rogers with the first overall pick in the NFL draft. While Rogers was talented, many fans and analysts believed the team needed a quarterback or defensive player. Despite this, Rogers had a successful career with the Saints, rushing for over 1,000 yards each of his first three seasons with the team.
Despite the team's struggles on the field, the Saints remained popular in New Orleans. The team's distinctive black and gold colors and association with the city's rich history and culture helped to endear it to local fans.
The team's fortunes began to change in the mid-1980s with the hiring of Jim Mora as head coach. Mora brought a new level of discipline and professionalism to the team, and the Saints began to improve. However, the team's struggles during the Dark Years serve as a reminder of the challenges that face any new sports franchise and the importance of patience and perseverance in building a winning team.
Sources:
New Orleans Saints Official Website. "History." https://www.neworleanssaints.com/team/history/
The Times-Picayune. "The Dark Years: The Saints' early days were anything but glorious." https://www.nola.com/sports/saints/article_81d28533-aa47-570e-985f-26e381d0a9df.html
The Advocate. "1967: New Orleans Saints' Inaugural Game Was One For The Ages." https://www.theadvocate.com/gambit/new_orleans/news/article_6a26a148-9811-11ea-92a5-5b5d4a3c9048.html
The New Orleans Saints rise to prominence began in the late 1980s and early 1990s under the leadership of head coach Jim Mora. Mora brought a new level of discipline and professionalism to the team, and the Saints began to improve.
One of the critical factors in the Saints' success during this period was the emergence of a dominant defense. The linebackers known as the "Dome Patrol" - made up of Rickey Jackson, Sam Mills, Vaughan Johnson, and Pat Swilling - were among the most feared in the league. They helped the team to finish in the top 10 in total defense for four consecutive seasons from 1991 to 1994.
On the offensive side of the ball, the Saints were led by quarterback Bobby Hebert. Hebert had played for the USFL's Michigan Panthers and had signed with the Saints in 1985. Hebert had a strong arm and was known for his accuracy, which made him a perfect fit for Mora's offense.
In 1987, the Saints made their first playoff appearance in franchise history. Despite losing to the Minnesota Vikings in the Wild Card round, the team's success on the field helped to raise the franchise's profile and attract new fans.
The Saints' success continued into the early 1990s. In 1991, the team finished with an 11-5 record, the best in franchise history up to that point. The team's defense was dominant, allowing just 202 points throughout the season. However, the team's playoff run was cut short by the Atlanta Falcons in the Wild Card round.
In 1992, the Saints made another playoff appearance but were again eliminated in the Wild Card round, this time by the Philadelphia Eagles. The team's success during this period helped to raise the franchise's profile and cement its place as a fixture in the NFL.
While the Saints could not make a deep playoff run during this period, their success on the field helped create a sense of optimism and excitement around the team. The emergence of the "Dome Patrol" defense and the team's success under Mora helped attract new fans and create a sense of pride in New Orleans.
Sources:
New Orleans Saints Official Website. "History." https://www.neworleanssaints.com/team/history/
Pro Football Hall of Fame. "New Orleans Saints Franchise History." https://www.profootballhof.com/teams/new-orleans-saints/team-history/
Sports Illustrated. "Inside the NFL: A look back at the Saints' Dome Patrol defense." https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/08/08/new-orleans-saints-dome-patrol-defense-history
The Ditka Era of the New Orleans Saints began in 1997 and was a period of disappointment and frustration for the team and its fans. Mike Ditka, a former NFL coach and a player, was hired to lead the Saints and turn the franchise around. However, his tenure with the team was marked by controversy and poor performance.
Ditka's first season with the Saints in 1997 was a disappointment. The team finished with a 6-10 record and missed the playoffs. Ditka's decision to trade away quarterback Heath Shuler, who had been the team's starter for much of the season, was widely criticized by fans and analysts.
In 1998, Ditka made a controversial decision to draft running back Ricky Williams as the fifth overall pick in the NFL draft. Many saw the move as a gamble, as Williams had a reputation for being a talented but unconventional player. Despite this, Ditka believed Williams could help turn the Saints around and make them a contender.
Williams struggled during his rookie season in 1999, and the Saints finished with a disappointing 3-13 record. Ditka's decision to trade away the team's first-round pick in the 2000 draft for Williams was widely criticized, and many fans began to lose faith in the coach's ability to lead the team.
In 2000, Ditka was fired by the Saints after three disappointing seasons. His tenure with the team was marked by controversy and poor performance, and he could not turn the franchise around.
Despite the disappointment of the Ditka Era, there were some bright spots for the Saints during this period. Quarterback Billy Joe Tolliver, who had been a backup for much of his career, emerged as a solid starter for the team in 1998 and 1999. Wide receiver Joe Horn also had a breakout season in 2000, catching 94 passes for 1,399 yards and 11 touchdowns.
The Saints' struggles during the Ditka Era serve as a reminder of the challenges that face any sports franchise. While Ditka was seen as a charismatic figure, who could turn the team around, his tenure with the Saints was marked by controversy and poor performance. However, the team's struggles during this period also helped to set the stage for the arrival of head coach Sean Payton and quarterback Drew Brees, who would lead the team to its first-ever Super Bowl victory in 2009.
Sources:
New Orleans Saints Official Website. "History." https://www.neworleanssaints.com/team/history/
Pro Football Hall of Fame. "New Orleans Saints Franchise History." https://www.profootballhof.com/teams/new-orleans-saints/team-history/
ESPN. "Looking back at Mike Ditka's tumultuous tenure with the New Orleans Saints." https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/28993171/looking-back-mike-ditka-tumultuous-tenure-new-orleans-saints
The Payton/Brees Era of the New Orleans Saints began in 2006 with the hiring of head coach Sean Payton and the acquisition of quarterback Drew Brees. This period of the team's history is widely regarded as the most successful, with the Saints winning their first Super Bowl championship in 2009.
Payton, who had previously been an assistant coach with the Dallas Cowboys, brought new energy and enthusiasm to the Saints. He quickly rebuilt the team, bringing in new players and implementing a new offensive system that would make the most of Brees' talents.
Brees, who had previously played for the San Diego Chargers, was seen as a risky signing by some. He had suffered a significant shoulder injury in 2005, and there were questions about whether he could return to his previous level of play. However, Payton believed in Brees and saw him as the key to turning the Saints into a contender.
Brees proved to be a perfect fit for the Saints offense. He had a quick release and was accurate on short and intermediate passes, allowing the team to move the ball down the field quickly. He also had a strong arm, which allowed him to make deep throws down the field.
The Saints' success on the field during the Payton/Brees Era was mainly due to the team's high-powered offense. The team set several records during this period, including the most total yards (7,474 in 2011) and most passing yards (5,476 by Brees in 2011).
One of the most memorable moments of the Payton/Brees Era was the team's Super Bowl victory in 2009. The team defeated the Indianapolis Colts 31-17 in Super Bowl XLIV, with Brees named the game's MVP. The win was a source of pride for the city of New Orleans, which had been devastated by Hurricane Katrina just a few years earlier.
The Saints continued to succeed on the field during the Payton/Brees Era, making the playoffs several times and advancing to the NFC Championship Game in 2018. However, the team's success has been tempered in recent years by the retirement of Brees and the departure of some key players.
Despite this, the Payton/Brees Era will always be remembered as unprecedented success for the Saints. The team's high-powered offense and dominant defense made them one of the most feared teams in the league, and their Super Bowl victory in 2009 will always be remembered as a defining moment in the franchise's history.
Sources:
New Orleans Saints Official Website. "History." https://www.neworleanssaints.com/team/history/
Pro Football Hall of Fame. "New Orleans Saints Franchise History." https://www.profootballhof.com/teams/new-orleans-saints/team-history/
ESPN. "Sean Payton, Drew Brees lift New Orleans Saints to new heights." https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/22905369/sean-payton-drew-brees-lift-new-orleans-saints-new-heights
Hurricane Katrina, which struck New Orleans in 2005, profoundly impacted the city and its residents, including the New Orleans Saints. The storm's aftermath was difficult for the team and its fans, but it also served as a source of inspiration and motivation.
In the wake of Hurricane Katrina, the Saints were forced to play their home games at other stadiums nationwide. The team played its first "home" game of the 2005 season at Giants Stadium in New Jersey and later played games in San Antonio, Texas, and Baton Rouge, Louisiana. This forced the team to play in unfamiliar surroundings and added to the difficulties of an already challenging season.
Despite these challenges, the Saints succeeded on the field during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. The team finished the 2006 season with a 10-6 record and made the playoffs for the first time since 2000. This success helped lift the city's spirits and provided a much-needed source of pride and inspiration.
The Saints' success during this period was primarily due to the leadership of head coach Sean Payton and quarterback Drew Brees. Payton had been hired before the 2006 season and quickly rebuilt the team. Brees, who had signed with the Saints in 2006, brought a new level of talent and leadership to the team.
The Saints' success on the field during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina was a source of inspiration for New Orleans. The team's success helped lift the city's spirits and provided a much-needed sense of hope and pride.
In recognition of the team's role in the city's recovery, the Saints were awarded the George Halas Trophy in 2006, which is given to the team that overcomes adversity and makes a significant contribution to the NFL.
The aftermath of Hurricane Katrina was harrowing for the New Orleans Saints and the city of New Orleans. However, the team's success on the field during this period helped lift the town's spirits and inspired residents struggling to rebuild their lives.
Sources:
New Orleans Saints Official Website. "History." https://www.neworleanssaints.com/team/history/
Pro Football Hall of Fame. "New Orleans Saints Franchise History." https://www.profootballhof.com/teams/new-orleans-saints/team-history/
ESPN. "Saints provide beacon of hope in wake of Katrina." https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=2163565
The New Orleans Saints have had a successful and storied history, but highs and lows have marked the team's recent years. Here's a look at the team's recent history and what the future may hold:
Recent Years:
The Saints have remained a competitive team in the NFL, making the playoffs several times in recent years.
Quarterback Drew Brees retired after the 2020 season, leaving a significant hole in the team's offense.
The team has faced salary cap issues in recent years, leading to the departure of some key players.
Despite these challenges, the Saints have remained competitive in the NFL. The team has a strong core of players and a talented coaching staff, which should help keep the team in contention in the coming years.
The Future:
The Saints must find a new quarterback to replace Drew Brees, who retired after the 2020 season.
The team must also address its salary cap issues, which could mean parting ways with some key players.
Head coach Sean Payton has been with the team since 2006 and has shown no signs of leaving, which should provide stability and continuity for the team.
The future of the Saints looks bright, despite the team's challenges in recent years. With a talented coaching staff and a strong core of players, the team should be able to remain competitive in the NFL for years to come. However, the team must make some critical decisions about its roster and finances to continue its success.
Sources:
New Orleans Saints Official Website. "History." https://www.neworleanssaints.com/team/history/
Pro Football Hall of Fame. "New Orleans Saints Franchise History." https://www.profootballhof.com/teams/new-orleans-saints/team-history/
ESPN. "What's next for the Saints? Finding a new quarterback tops the list." https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/30954669/what-next-new-orleans-saints-finding-new-quarterback-tops-list
The New Orleans Saints were named by their founder, John W. Mecom Jr., who wanted the team to symbolize hope and inspiration for the city of New Orleans. The name "Saints" reflects the city's strong Catholic heritage. New Orleans is known as the "City of Saints" due to its numerous Catholic churches and religious traditions. In addition to its religious connotations, the name "Saints" was meant to represent the team's role in the city's recovery following Hurricane Katrina. The team's success on the field during the storm's aftermath helped lift the city's spirits and provided inspiration and pride. Since the team's founding in 1967, the name "Saints" has become synonymous with New Orleans. The team has become an essential part of the city's identity and a source of pride for its residents.
The New Orleans Saints were awarded an NFL franchise on November 1, 1966. The team played its first season in 1967 and has been a beloved part of the city's sports and cultural landscape ever since. The Saints were the first major professional sports franchise in New Orleans and have played an essential role in the city's identity and sense of community.
Yes, the New Orleans Saints have always been based in New Orleans since they were awarded an NFL franchise in 1966. The team has played its home games at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome (formerly the Louisiana Superdome) in downtown New Orleans since it opened in 1975. The Saints are essential to the city's sports and cultural identity and have a devoted fan base in New Orleans and beyond.
Ronald D. Spieker
Ronald D. Spieker is a dedicated sports blogger who has been a football fan since birth. With 7 years of experience in sports blogging, Ronald has built a reputation as a knowledgeable and passionate commentator on all things football. He is known for his engaging writing style and ability to break down complex topics in a way that is accessible to fans of all levels. Whether it's analyzing the latest game stats, delving into team strategies, or discussing the latest news from around the league, Ronald is always on top of the latest developments in football. His love for the sport shines through in every article he writes, and his readers appreciate his in-depth knowledge and insightful commentary.
