Dear Sean Payton,
I am all in my feels trying to write this. In 2006, you came here and transformed a team that was used to being mediocre and sluggish, and honestly just plain boring to watch, to some of the most exciting football we’ve seen since the Dome Patrol. With the help of a quarterback coming from an injury that many thought was a mistake, you saw through it, you saw the potential we had, and the opportunities that lay ahead.
Since you have joined us, you took us to our first NFC Championship appearance in franchise history, with two more appearances to follow, a total of nine playoff appearances, and seven division titles. SEVEN!
I can still hear you saying, “Let’s go to the Superbowl boys, right here!” in the NFC Championship game against Minnesota. Hartley kicked the field goal perfectly, and the emotion was indescribable. You did that for us, you coached our team to win its first ever Superbowl. I always say, we can win a few more, but it will never be as special as the first one.
I never thought of a time when we wouldn’t have Drew, and now we have to process a time where you are moving on as well. The city of New Orleans may not be where you are from, or where you will even stay, but this city will forever be indebted to you for the joy you have brought to us over a football team.
What a legacy to leave behind! You are the most successful head coach we have ever had, and for that, the city of New Orleans is eternally grateful.
WHO DAT! BLESS YOU BOYS!
