The New Orleans Saints is a professional American football team based in New Orleans, Louisiana. They are a member of the South Division of the National Football Conference (NFC) in the National Football League (NFL). Established in 1967, the Saints have had a storied journey filled with highs and lows, ultimately becoming one of the league’s most beloved franchises.
Early Years (1967-1979)
The New Orleans Saints were awarded as an NFL franchise on November 1, 1966, which coincided with the Catholic holiday of All Saints’ Day, inspiring the team’s name. The team played their first game on September 17, 1967, at Tulane Stadium, losing to the Los Angeles Rams. The Saints’ early years were marked by struggle and poor performance. In their inaugural season, they finished with a 3-11 record. Over the next decade, the Saints failed to produce a winning season, despite several notable players and a passionate fan base.
The Arrival of Archie Manning (1971-1982)
In 1971, the Saints drafted quarterback Archie Manning, who would become one of the team’s most iconic players. Despite Manning’s talent and leadership, the team continued to struggle, largely due to a lack of supporting talent and organizational instability. The Saints did not manage a winning record during Manning’s tenure, though he provided moments of brilliance and was beloved by fans.
Building a Competitive Team (1983-1986)
The early 1980s saw some improvement with the arrival of new head coach Bum Phillips in 1981. Phillips brought a disciplined approach and began assembling a more competitive team. Despite this, the Saints could not achieve a playoff berth and Phillips resigned after the 1985 season.
The Mora Era and the First Playoff Berth (1986-1996)
In 1986, Jim Mora was hired as head coach, marking a turning point for the franchise. Mora introduced the “Dome Patrol,” a formidable linebacker corps featuring Rickey Jackson, Pat Swilling, Sam Mills, and Vaughan Johnson. Under Mora, the Saints achieved their first-ever winning season in 1987, finishing 12-3 and earning a playoff berth. Although they lost to the Minnesota Vikings in the first round, it was a significant milestone.
The Saints continued to be competitive under Mora, making the playoffs three more times (1990, 1991, and 1992) but failed to win a playoff game. Despite their regular-season success, postseason victory remained elusive.
Struggles and Changes (1997-1999)
The mid-to-late 1990s were challenging for the Saints. Jim Mora resigned midway through the 1996 season, and the team went through a period of instability with multiple coaching changes. Mike Ditka, hired in 1997, brought hope but could not turn the team’s fortunes around, culminating in a disappointing 1999 season.
The Arrival of Sean Payton and Drew Brees (2006-2011)
In 2006, the franchise’s fortunes changed dramatically with the hiring of head coach Sean Payton and the signing of quarterback Drew Brees. The duo transformed the Saints into one of the NFL’s most potent offences. In their first season together, the Saints reached the NFC Championship Game but lost to the Chicago Bears.
The pinnacle of the Saints’ success came in the 2009 season when they finished 13-3 and advanced to Super Bowl XLIV. The Saints defeated the Indianapolis Colts 31-17, securing their first and only Super Bowl championship.
Super Bowl XLIV (2009)
- Champions: New Orleans Saints
- Opponent: Indianapolis Colts
- Score: 31-17
Continued Success and Challenges (2012-Present)
The Saints remained competitive in the years following their Super Bowl win. However, the team faced significant challenges, including the “Bountygate” scandal in 2012, which resulted in suspensions for Sean Payton and other key personnel. Despite this setback, the Saints continued to perform well, frequently making playoff appearances.
The late 2010s were characterized by consistent success, driven by the enduring excellence of Drew Brees and a rejuvenated defence. The Saints won four consecutive NFC South titles from 2017 to 2020 but were unable to return to the Super Bowl.
Drew Brees retired after the 2020 season, marking the end of an era. In 2021, Sean Payton continued to coach the team, transitioning to a new phase with Jameis Winston as the starting quarterback. Despite a challenging transition, the Saints remained competitive in a tough NFC South division.
Trophies and Notable Achievements
- Super Bowl Championships: 1
- Super Bowl XLIV (2009 Season)
- NFC Championships: 1
- 2009
- Division Championships: 9
- NFC West: 1991, 2000
- NFC South: 2006, 2009, 2011, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020
Conclusion
The New Orleans Saints have experienced a dramatic and emotional journey from their inception in 1967 to their Super Bowl triumph in 2009 and beyond. With passionate fans and a legacy of resilience, the Saints continue to be a symbol of New Orleans’ spirit and determination.