Veteran linebacker Demario Davis is keeping his options open on returning to the New Orleans Saints, saying he wants to test free agency. But the 37-year-old is representing the team and the city during the week of Super Bowl 60.
For the third time, Davis is the Saints’ nominee for the Walter Payton Man of the Year award. All 32 NFL franchises nominate a player for the award, which recognizes community service, philanthropy and on-field excellence. The nominees will be recognized at “NFL Honors” on Thursday night, where the winner of the award will be announced.
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Also set to be announced is the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026, which has received new attention and scrutiny after former New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick and owner Robert Kraft were left off the first ballot.
Up for his first attempt this year is Saints legend Drew Brees, who should be a shoo-in, but anything is possible now. Davis discussed the uncertainty around the Hall of Fame on the New Orleans Saints Podcast on Wednesday.
“(Brees) is our GOAT,” Davis said. “More than deserving of being a first-ballot Hall of Famer.
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“I think everybody thought Bill Belichick would be first-ballot Hall of Famer and that got missed and I don’t know what happened. But I want to make sure that the Hall of Fame is aware, I’m not saying this viciously, New Orleans will riot if Drew Brees is not a first-ballot Hall of Famer. I just want you to be prepared for the aftermath.”
Brees was already named one of 15 modern-era player finalists for the recognition. Up to five players can be chosen. Here is the list:
Willie Anderson, OTDrew Brees, QBJahri Evans, OGLarry Fitzgerald, WRFrank Gore, RBTorry Holt, WRLuke Kuechly, LBEli Manning, QBTerrell Suggs, OLB/DEAdam Vinatieri, KReggie Wayne, WRKevin Williams, DTJason Witten, TEDarren Woodson, SMarshal Yanda, OG/OTMore Saints news: