Podcast Summary: The Stephen A. Smith Show – Interview Only: New Orleans' Super Bowl Hero, QB Drew Brees

Episode Overview

In this engaging episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show, host Stephen A. Smith sits down with Drew Brees, the legendary former quarterback of the New Orleans Saints. Released on February 8, 2025, the interview delves deep into Brees' illustrious career, his impact on New Orleans post-Katrina, his perspectives on the evolving quarterback role in the NFL, and his current endeavors off the field.

1. Life After Football

Balancing Family and Business

Drew Brees opens up about his life post-retirement, emphasizing the joy he finds in spending time with his wife, Brittany, and their four children. He is actively involved in coaching his sons' diverse sports activities, from tackle football to gymnastics.

Drew Brees [01:34]: "Honestly, just being dad is the greatest thing in the world."

Beyond family, Brees remains busy with various business ventures and maintains a strong connection to New Orleans, showcasing his commitment to the city that embraced him.

2. Reflecting on a Stellar Career

Comfort in Retirement

When asked about his decision to retire after the 2020 season, Brees reflects on the challenges of leaving a sport that has been central to his life for over two decades. He acknowledges the difficulty of stepping away but feels physically capable, albeit mindful of lingering shoulder issues.

Drew Brees [02:00]: "I retired at age 42. I still feel great. If I could still throw, I'd probably still be playing."

Career Achievements and Growth

Brees highlights his relentless pursuit of improvement throughout his 20-season career, maintaining a 67.7% completion rate and exceeding 70% in his final five years. He attributes his success to continuous self-assessment, mentorship, and a focus on efficiency and decision-making.

Drew Brees [03:39]: "Every year it was, I was getting better."

3. The Evolving Quarterback Role

Traditional vs. Modern QBs

Stephen A. Smith brings up the transition in the quarterback role from pass-heavy legends like Tom Brady and Peyton Manning to more versatile players like Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson, Jalen Hurts, and Patrick Mahomes, who incorporate significant rushing abilities.

Stephen A. Smith [04:51]: "We see guys like that. Jalen Hurts. What he's expected to do in this, he can run with the football."

Brees' Perspective on the Evolution

Brees acknowledges the changes, attributing them to offensive strategies that emphasize multi-threat quarterbacks. He appreciates the adaptability but also underscores the enduring importance of strong passing fundamentals.

Drew Brees [05:34]: "Just think it's the evolution of the game and now these quarterbacks have evolved with it."

Appreciation for Traditional QBs

Brees advocates for the appreciation of traditional pass-first quarterbacks, emphasizing the critical role they play in managing the game and executing precise plays under pressure.

Drew Brees [07:03]: "At least a few times in a game, you're gonna have to just drop back, stand in the pocket... deliver that ball strike down the field."

4. Current NFL Landscape and Player Comparisons

Evaluating Modern Quarterbacks

Brees commends current quarterbacks who exhibit strong passing abilities akin to his own, notably Joe Burrow and C.J. Stroud. He highlights Burrow's intelligence and adaptability, as well as Stroud's poise and leadership.

Drew Brees [08:20]: "The first guy that comes to mind is Joe Burrow... Look, his O line struggled and he was forced to move... he has the awareness to step up and escape."

Super Bowl Matchup Insights

Discussing the upcoming Super Bowl, Brees shares his thoughts on the Philadelphia Eagles versus the Kansas City Chiefs. He expresses confidence in the Eagles' defensive strategies and Jalen Hurts' leadership, suggesting that Philadelphia has more at stake and the potential to overcome the Chiefs' prowess.

Drew Brees [12:05]: "Philly has more to lose in this game... They built this roster. Unbelievable."

5. Thoughts on Coaching Legends

Andy Reid vs. Bill Belichick

When comparing coaches Andy Reid and Bill Belichick, Brees acknowledges Reid's brilliance and adaptability, citing his success with multiple teams. While recognizing Belichick's unparalleled achievements, Brees places Reid in the conversation as a deserving figure in coaching excellence.

Drew Brees [14:23]: "There's a brilliance to that that should be honored and appreciated... Andy Reid is certainly in that, in that category."

6. Super Bowl 44 and Its Impact on New Orleans

A City Transformed

Brees reminisces about Super Bowl 44 and its profound impact on New Orleans, highlighting the unity and joy it brought to a city recovering from Hurricane Katrina and other tragedies. He reflects on the Saints' role in revitalizing community spirit and providing hope.

Drew Brees [15:24]: "It was like getting on that super bowl float... People smiles like tears of joy. So happy."

Personal Gratitude and Responsibility

Brees expresses deep gratitude for the opportunity to be part of something special in New Orleans, emphasizing the sense of responsibility he feels towards the city and its people. He aims to continue fostering positive perceptions of New Orleans both locally and globally.

Drew Brees [18:02]: "I feel a great sense of responsibility... I want people to talk great about New Orleans."

7. Collaborations and Current Projects

Everyone's Wingman Campaign

Brees discusses his collaboration with Rob Gronkowski for the Everyone's Wingman campaign, showcasing their camaraderie and shared experiences in New Orleans. This partnership underscores Brees' continued involvement in community and promotional activities.

Drew Brees [18:54]: "We've been running around Radio Row having a good time."

8. Conclusion

The interview concludes with light-hearted moments as Stephen A. Smith and Drew Brees engage in playful banter about pizza toppings, highlighting the relaxed and friendly dynamic between the two sports icons. Brees reiterates his enduring connection to the game and his unwavering support for New Orleans.

Drew Brees [20:18]: "Great to see you."

Stephen A. Smith [20:19]: "No doubt. The one and only Drew Brees in the house right here on the Stephen A. Smith show."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Drew Brees [01:34]: "Honestly, just being dad is the greatest thing in the world."
• Drew Brees [02:00]: "I retired at age 42. I still feel great. If I could still throw, I'd probably still be playing."
• Drew Brees [03:39]: "Every year it was, I was getting better."
• Stephen A. Smith [04:51]: "We see guys like that. Jalen Hurts. What he's expected to do in this, he can run with the football."
• Drew Brees [05:34]: "Just think it's the evolution of the game and now these quarterbacks have evolved with it."
• Drew Brees [07:03]: "At least a few times in a game, you're gonna have to just drop back, stand in the pocket... deliver that ball strike down the field."
• Drew Brees [08:20]: "The first guy that comes to mind is Joe Burrow... Look, his O line struggled and he was forced to move... he has the awareness to step up and escape."
• Drew Brees [12:05]: "Philly has more to lose in this game... They built this roster. Unbelievable."
• Drew Brees [14:23]: "There's a brilliance to that that should be honored and appreciated... Andy Reid is certainly in that, in that category."
• Drew Brees [15:24]: "It was like getting on that super bowl float... People smiles like tears of joy. So happy."
• Drew Brees [18:02]: "I feel a great sense of responsibility... I want people to talk great about New Orleans."

Final Thoughts

This episode offers a comprehensive look into Drew Brees' life beyond the gridiron, his reflections on an outstanding career, and his insights into the modern dynamics of the NFL. Brees' heartfelt stories about New Orleans and his ongoing contributions to the community underscore his legacy as not just a sports icon but also a beloved figure in the hearts of many.