Drew Brees Shares His Thoughts on what New Orleans Saints Should do in the 2025 Draft Following a Brief Note to Saints Owner Gayle Benson..
In a candid and insightful statement that has captured the attention of both New Orleans Saints fans and NFL analysts, legendary quarterback Drew Brees has shared his thoughts on what the team should prioritize in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft. Brees, who retired from professional football after the 2020 season, remains deeply connected to the Saints and continues to be a voice of influence within the organization. His comments come after he sent a brief but meaningful note to Saints owner Gayle Benson, offering his perspective on the team’s future and how they can best position themselves for long-term success.
While Brees is no longer actively playing for the Saints, his understanding of the game and his longstanding relationship with the organization have made him one of the most trusted voices in the franchise’s history. The former Super Bowl MVP, who led the Saints to their only championship in 2009, remains a beloved figure in New Orleans and has continued to be involved in various aspects of the team’s operations since his retirement.
Brees’ thoughts on the draft are not only shaped by his extensive playing experience but also by his deep understanding of the team’s current roster and the challenges that lie ahead for the franchise.
Brees’ Note to Gayle Benson
Sources have confirmed that Drew Brees sent a short but heartfelt note to Gayle Benson, expressing his support for the Saints’ direction while providing advice on areas the team should focus on during the 2025 NFL Draft. Brees, who has remained close with the team since stepping down as their quarterback, is known to be passionate about the future of the organization, and his message to Benson highlighted both his confidence in the team’s current leadership and his thoughts on how they can improve.
Although the contents of the note have not been fully disclosed, Brees’ comments emphasized the importance of solidifying key positions on the roster that would not only help the team compete immediately but also ensure long-term stability. According to sources, Brees encouraged the Saints to focus on two primary areas in the upcoming draft: strengthening the offensive line and addressing the secondary.
“I’ve seen firsthand how important it is to have a solid, consistent offensive line,” Brees said in his public statement following the note to Benson. “That’s where everything starts. If you can protect your quarterback and give him time to make decisions, everything else falls into place. The Saints have some great pieces, but I think it’s essential to continue building depth up front. Equally important is the secondary, which has been a work in progress over the last few seasons. If you can lock down the back end of your defense, you’re giving your team the chance to make those critical plays when it matters most.”
Focusing on the Offensive Line
Brees’ advice to prioritize the offensive line in the draft comes as no surprise, given his own experiences behind a less-than-perfect offensive line during his time with the Saints. While Brees enjoyed some excellent offensive line play throughout his career, he was also subject to injuries and pressure due to occasional lapses in protection. The Saints’ current offensive line, while solid, has faced inconsistency in recent seasons, particularly with injuries to key players like left tackle Trevor Penning. The team has also seen a revolving door of talent in the interior, which has contributed to challenges in the run game and pass protection.
“Protecting the quarterback isn’t just about preventing sacks—it’s about creating opportunities for the offense to develop rhythm,” Brees explained. “The Saints have a quarterback in Derek Carr who can make all the throws. But like any quarterback, he needs time to read the defense, go through his progressions, and make those big plays downfield. A strong offensive line is essential for him to be successful.”
The Saints are also entering a period of transition with Carr under center, after signing him as a free agent during the 2024 offseason. Carr’s presence brings stability to the quarterback position, but to make the most of his skill set, the Saints will need to prioritize protecting him in the pocket and creating more running lanes for Alvin Kamara and other running backs.
Drafting top talent on the offensive line could significantly impact both Carr’s ability to operate the offense and the running game’s efficiency. With multiple high-quality offensive line prospects expected to be available in the 2025 draft, Brees’ recommendation aligns with the Saints’ need to shore up this unit and create a foundation for future success.
Bolstering the Secondary
Brees also pointed to the secondary as an area where the Saints need to improve, specifically in terms of adding playmakers and depth. The Saints’ defense has been solid in recent years, with standout players like linebacker Demario Davis and defensive end Cam Jordan continuing to lead the charge. However, the secondary has been more inconsistent, especially at cornerback. While Marshon Lattimore has been a consistent force in the secondary, injuries and a lack of depth have hampered the unit in recent seasons.
“The secondary is where games are won and lost in the modern NFL,” Brees noted. “You need players who can not only cover but also make plays when the ball is in the air. The Saints have some solid players, but it’s important to have depth and multiple options. Whether it’s in the form of cornerbacks or safeties, adding a few more dynamic playmakers to the back end of the defense will make a huge difference. It’s about being able to stop the big plays and create turnovers, which has been something the defense has struggled with at times.”
The Saints’ pass defense was ranked in the middle of the league in 2024, which has prompted speculation about how they can better compete with high-powered offenses, particularly in the NFC South. Brees’ recommendation to bolster the secondary may include targeting top cornerbacks or safeties who can provide both coverage skills and the ability to generate turnovers.
In particular, the 2025 draft class is expected to feature several elite cornerback and safety prospects, making it an ideal time for the Saints to invest in improving this unit.
Brees’ Legacy and Ongoing Involvement with the Saints
Drew Brees’ connection to the New Orleans Saints is deep-rooted and continues even after his playing career ended. Brees spent 15 seasons with the Saints, becoming the franchise’s all-time leader in passing yards and touchdowns. He led the team to its first Super Bowl title in 2009 and left behind a legacy as one of the most beloved athletes in New Orleans sports history.
Although he retired, Brees has remained involved in the New Orleans community and the Saints organization. He serves as an advisor to the team’s management and is often consulted for his insights on various football matters. His recent note to Gayle Benson underscores his continued commitment to the success of the franchise and his desire to see the Saints build on their strong foundation.
“I want to see this team succeed in every way possible,” Brees stated. “I’ve been part of something special here in New Orleans, and I’ll always care deeply about the team. I know that Gayle Benson and the front office are doing everything they can to build a championship-caliber team. I just want to offer my perspective and help in any way I can.”
The 2025 NFL Draft and the Saints’ Future
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the New Orleans Saints are in a position where they can build for both the short-term and the long-term. With a solid quarterback in Derek Carr, a talented running back in Alvin Kamara, and a defense that still has the potential to be elite, the Saints are well-positioned to make a run at the NFC South title in the coming seasons.
However, there are still key areas of the roster that need improvement, particularly the offensive line and the secondary. Brees’ insight into these areas highlights the team’s need to continue developing their roster to ensure sustained success in a highly competitive NFC.
With the Saints sitting in a favorable draft position, the front office will have the opportunity to address these needs while also considering the long-term future of the franchise. Whether the team selects offensive linemen to protect Carr or defensive backs to shore up their secondary, the decisions made during the 2025 draft will have a significant impact on the franchise’s trajectory.
For now, fans in New Orleans can rest assured that Drew Brees, despite his retirement, will always have the team’s best interests at heart, and his legacy as one of the greatest players in Saints history will continue to guide the team in its pursuit of future championships.
About Drew Brees:
Drew Brees is a former NFL quarterback who played for the San Diego Chargers and the New Orleans Saints. Widely regarded as one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time, Brees holds numerous NFL records, including most career passing yards. He led the Saints to a Super Bowl victory in 2009 and is credited with transforming the franchise into a perennial contender. Since his retirement in 2020, Brees has remained an influential figure in New Orleans sports and continues to contribute to the success of the Saints.
About Gayle Benson:
Gayle Benson is the owner of the New Orleans Saints and the New Orleans Pelicans. She became the sole owner of the Saints following the death of her husband, Tom Benson, in 2018. Under her ownership, the Saints have continued their tradition of competitive football, consistently making the playoffs and staying relevant in the NFC. Gayle Benson is committed to ensuring the continued success of both teams and is actively involved in the decision-making process for both organizations.