The Best of the New Orleans Saints 2015 Season

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Nov 1, 2015; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Saints tight end Benjamin Watson (82) celebrates after a touchdown in the third quarter of the game against the New York Giants at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. New Orleans won 52-49. Mandatory Credit: Matt Bush-USA TODAY Sports /

Benjamin Watson’s career revival

A story nothing short of spectacular is that of the 35-year-old veteran tight end, Ben Watson. After the New Orleans Saints traded away Jimmy Graham, people, national media in particular, thought they were doomed on offense.

With the help of Watson, Drew Brees led the league in passing for an NFL-record sixth time and the Saints finished No. 2 in total offense on the regular season.

Watson, one of the hardest working and most in shape players on the team, defied age after having the best season of his 12-year career, which includes stints with the New England Patriots and Cleveland Browns. He finished 2015 with 74 receptions, 825 yards and six touchdowns — all career highs.

Finishing the year strong was key for the veteran tight end. It may have been enough to convince the Saints he’s worth keeping around for at least another season (he’s set to be an unrestricted free agent). He’s a leader and a true voice in the locker room, a first one there last one to leave kind of guy. And most importantly, he has a special connection with his future Hall-of-Fame quarterback.

Next: The Dangerous Duo