The New Orleans Saints entered the NFL in 1967 and spent much of their early history searching for stability and direction. For decades they were known more for loyal fans than winning results, enduring long stretches without playoff success while still filling the Superdome with energy.
Fortunes changed in the mid-2000s when head coach Sean Payton arrived and Drew Brees signed as a free agent. The pair built one of the league’s most efficient offenses, transforming the franchise into a perennial contender. Their success brought national recognition and created a new football identity for New Orleans.
The Saints reached the pinnacle in the 2009 season, defeating the Indianapolis Colts in Super Bowl XLIV and delivering the city its first championship. The emotional significance of that run, coming just years after Hurricane Katrina, strengthened the connection between the Saints and the city of New Orleans.
Known for creativity on offense, passionate fan support, and memorable postseason battles, the Saints remain one of the NFL’s most followed franchises. With a history that blends adversity and triumph, New Orleans continues its pursuit of future championships.
Where Do the New Orleans Saints Play?
The Saints play at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana. The venue opened in 1975 and is one of the league’s most recognizable stadiums, known for its dome architecture and intense home-field atmosphere.
The Superdome has hosted the Super Bowl more times than any other venue, the annual Sugar Bowl and other major college football games, concerts, and playoff classics. Noise levels inside the building often disrupt opposing offenses, giving the Saints a notable advantage during high-stakes games.
History of the New Orleans Saints
The New Orleans Saints were established in 1967 but struggled through its first decades, experiencing only sporadic winning seasons. Loyal fans embraced the team regardless, often referred to humorously as the “Aints” during tough years.
Change arrived in 1986 with the hiring of Jim Mora, who guided the Saints to their first playoff appearance in 1987. The Dome Patrol linebacker corps, featuring Rickey Jackson, Sam Mills, Pat Swilling, and Vaughan Johnson, became one of the most feared defensive units of the era.
The most transformative period began in 2006 when Sean Payton took over as head coach and Drew Brees signed with the team after leaving the San Diego Chargers.
Creative play design and precision passing turned New Orleans into one of the league’s most explosive offenses. The Saints reached their first Super Bowl in the 2009 season and defeated the Colts to secure a long-awaited championship.
New Orleans remained competitive throughout the 2010s with Brees setting numerous passing records. The franchise continues to transition into a new era while aiming to stay competitive in the NFC.
Interesting New Orleans Saints Facts & Franchise Milestones
- Founded in 1967
- First playoff appearance in 1987
- Super Bowl XLIV champions (2009 season)
- Drew Brees retired with the second-most passing yards in NFL history
- Caesars Superdome opened in 1975
- Known for loud home crowds and offensive creativity
Notable New Orleans Saints Players & Coaches
Notable Players
Drew Brees, Quarterback (2006–2020)
Brees became the face of the franchise and an elite passer for more than a decade. Known for accuracy and leadership, he guided New Orleans to its first Super Bowl title and retired as one of the league’s most productive quarterbacks.
Rickey Jackson, Linebacker (1981–1993)
A cornerstone of the Dome Patrol defense, Jackson was a dominant pass rusher and tackler. He earned six Pro Bowl selections and became the first Saints player inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Deuce McAllister, Running Back (2001–2009)
A physical runner with strong production in key seasons, McAllister helped drive the Saints offense during the early Payton-Brees years in New Orleans. He remains one of the most beloved players in franchise history.
Marques Colston, Wide Receiver (2006–2015)
A seventh-round pick who became Brees’ most reliable target. Colston holds several team receiving records and played a major role in the team’s championship offense.
Michael Thomas, Wide Receiver (2016–present)
Known for precise route running and volume production, Thomas set the single-season receptions record in 2019. At his peak he was one of the toughest matchups in football.
Alvin Kamara, Running Back (2017–present)
A versatile back who excels as both a runner and receiver. Kamara earned multiple Pro Bowl selections and scored six rushing touchdowns in a single 2020 game, tying an NFL record.
Cameron Jordan, Defensive End (2011–present)
A durable and productive pass rusher who anchors the defensive front. Jordan has multiple double-digit sack seasons and ranks among the most impactful defenders of his generation.
Notable Coaches
Sean Payton (2006–2021)
Payton was the architect of the franchise’s most successful era. Payton’s offensive designs and partnership with Brees led to a Super Bowl title and consistent playoff appearances.
Jim Mora (1986–1996)
Mora brought structure and competitiveness to a team that had struggled for decades. Mora led New Orleans to its first playoff appearance and helped establish a winning culture for the Saints.
Mike Ditka (1997–1999)
Though his tenure was short, Ditka’s arrival drew attention and marked a notable era for the franchise. His influence remained part of the team’s evolution entering the 2000s.