Drew Brees expected to retire following 2020 season

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - DECEMBER 25: Head coach Sean Payton and Drew Brees #9 of the New Orleans Saints talk during warm up prior to playing against the Minnesota Vikings at Mercedes-Benz Superdome on December 25, 2020 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - DECEMBER 25: Head coach Sean Payton and Drew Brees #9 of the New Orleans Saints talk during warm up prior to playing against the Minnesota Vikings at Mercedes-Benz Superdome on December 25, 2020 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images) /
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The New Orleans Saints star quarterback and future first-ballot Hall of Famer Drew Brees may not be back for the 2021 season.

The 41-year-old Drew Brees signed a two-year contract last offseason, but he may cut that short and retire following the 2020 season. The Saints are in a good position to acquire or retain a competent, starter-worthy quarterback in case Brees does hang the cleats up.

That said, ESPN’s Adam Schefter uttered a few words that no one in the Big Easy will ever be prepared to hear. “Everybody expects after this season Drew Brees will retire,” Schefter said on Sunday NFL Countdown.

Brees has played in the Big Easy for over a decade, and this time will come eventually.

For the Saints, there may not be a better time for Brees to call it quits than after this season. They’ll have both Jameis Winston and Taysom Hill on their bench and then a first-round pick to go along with a stellar offensive line to help usher in the successor.

As for Brees, this should be what he opts to do. After all, he’s missed at least four games in each of the last two seasons with various injuries. With kids at home, there’s no denying Brees, who already has a contract for broadcasting ready, may want to free up some of his time.

Brees is still playing at a high level though. Despite a weakening arm, Brees has eclipsed 2,700 yards for his 16th straight season. He’s led the league in completion percentage for three straight seasons and is looking to make that four straight, entering Week 17 as the league’s leader.

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He’s been a solid option for the Saints, and it’ll certainly be a transitioning process when he does indeed retire. Now, these are just expectations, but they do all make sense and may be the best option for both parties.