Drew Brees, a name synonymous with accuracy and excellence in the NFL, retired after the 2020 season, instantly solidifying his legacy as a future Hall of Famer. Throughout his illustrious career, he transformed the game of football by leading the New Orleans Saints to their first Super Bowl victory and consistently posting remarkable passing statistics during an era marked by the passing revolution. Joining the ranks of legendary quarterbacks such as Tom Brady, Peyton Manning, and Aaron Rodgers, Brees redefined quarterback play, especially noted for his unparalleled accuracy.
As the league’s all-time leader in completion percentage at 67.7% over an impressive 20 seasons, Brees distinguished himself as the most precise passer in NFL history. His completion rate not only tops the charts among retired players but also sets a challenging benchmark for current quarterbacks. Following the conclusion of the 2025 season, only Joe Burrow and Tua Tagovailoa will boast career completion percentages exceeding Brees’.
Brees set single-season completion percentage records multiple times, starting with a tie in 2009 and breaking it in further seasons. His final record, established in 2018, showcased a staggering 74.4% completion rate, a mark that still stands strong despite ongoing efforts from today’s quarterbacks to surpass it.
His career statistics underscore his exceptional performance: with 287 games played, Brees amassed 80,358 passing yards, 571 touchdowns, and a 98.7 passer rating, securing his position as one of the all-time greats in the league. He led the NFL in passing yards seven times, in completion percentage six times, and in touchdowns four times, maintaining remarkable consistency with only one season of 20 or more interceptions.
As the game continues to evolve, new talents rise, but Drew Brees’ legacy will remain a powerful influence on both aspiring quarterbacks and fans alike, inspiring future generations to strive for accuracy and excellence on the field.