Sean Payton, although now with the Denver Broncos, has deep roots with the New Orleans Saints. He recently got emotional during a FaceTime call from Drew Brees, an old friend from the Big Easy.
Brees reached out to his former coach, asking him to present him at the upcoming Hall of Fame induction in Canton, Ohio.
Honest to God, I can’t believe you just did that,
Payton said, wiping away tears. Yeah, absolutely man.
I can’t wait. I love you,
responded Brees.
Payton later remarked that the request caught him by surprise. Reflecting on their time together, he said, It was just a lot — 15 years together. A lot of times, for a number of reasons, those relationships — quarterback-coach — you kind of take for granted. Yet, sometimes, oftentimes, they don’t end the way you want them to end. I’m proud that it ended the way he wanted it to. I’m excited for him. As a coach, it’s an honor to be asked.
The close relationship between Payton and Brees began 15 years ago, resulting in a Super Bowl win in 2010, and making them constant contenders in the NFC. Brees, who retired in 2020, holds the second place for passing yards, completions, and touchdowns in NFL history.
Brees will be inducted into the Hall of Fame alongside notable athletes like Larry Fitzgerald, Luke Kuechly, Adam Vinatieri, and Roger Craig in the Class of 2026.
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